In today’s high tech world, phones, laptops, tablets, and most importantly social media dominate our society. Kids are being exposed to celebrity culture at very young ages. Lives of actors and actresses, musicians, influencers shine over what children should be seeing as they grow up. Celebrity culture has always been a big part of society, and it’s begun to have a negative impact on young children, specifically their body image.
Young people like teenagers are found struggling to develop their own identities. A key reason for this isthat they are constantly surrounded by “perfect” bodies, leading them to believe in the message that the only way to have a perfect, successful, and happy life is reliant on the aesthetics of their bodies. For children who are still learning about the ins and outs of the world, such culture sets a negative base on how they build their self-perception.
One of the most devastating facts about this reality is body dissatisfaction. Many children tend to begin worrying about weight and appearance from a young age, heavily influenced by the slim, hypersexualized bodies they’re bombarded with while on all types of media. This isn’t only negatively affecting girls, but also boys, who are blasted with men with chiseled, muscular figures, looking unattainable yet desired. The pressure to achieve a body type like those seen on social media is hard to ignore.
On social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and even YouTube, where celebrities showcase their lifestyles, the issue gets worse and worse. Not only are children viewing this toxic content on a day-to-day basis, but they are also viewing brand partnerships and beauty trends which revolve around looking perfect, all of the time. The constant exposure to celebrity idols and images brings a sense of insecurity, doubt, and an inaccurate vision of what life should be like.
It is unfortunate that the main focus in today’s society is based on one’s body, wealth, and fame. This ultimately creates an unhealthy environment for young people who are trying to find themselves in an already difficult world. Although there is no easy solution to this issue, it’s important for parents, educators, and even society as a whole to raise awareness about mental health and encourage self-acceptance. It is crucial that people everywhere recognize the toxicness behind celebrity culture and the images they put up.
