Appearance-related cyberbullying may encourage adolescent females to change their physical appearance, according to a recent study. 

In the study, published in the Journal of Eating Disorders, investigators examined the effects of appearance-related cyberbullying (ARC) on the mental health of adolescent females. The cross-sectional study involved 336 participants, aged 14 to 19 years who completed an online survey assessing experiences of ARC, body image concerns, and disordered eating behaviors.

A total of 62.2% of participants reported being victims of ARC, with body shape and size being the most targeted attributes. Other frequently mentioned areas included specific body features (e.g., breasts and bottom), facial appearance, clothing or style, and changes in appearance such as scars or skin conditions. Less frequently, bullying focused on age, skin color, and disabilities.

ARC victimization was found to be associated with increased body dissatisfaction, body shame, and eating disorder symptoms. Inversely, those who experienced ARC also reported lower body esteem and body appreciation. 

Nearly all of the adolescent females who experienced appearance-related cyberbullying (96.2%) reported a desire to change their physical appearance through dieting, exercise, or cosmetic procedures, with 74.2% of them feeling this way frequently.

Among those who had experienced ARC, 95.2% of them wanted to change their self-presentation, such as altering hair, makeup, or clothing, with 69.4% of them feeling this way often. Additionally, 81.3% reported feeling pressure to pursue cosmetic procedures, with 40.7% experiencing this urge frequently.

The findings indicated that ARC may contribute to the development of body image concerns and eating disorders in adolescent females. 

The authors reported no conflicts of interest.