New Era

P A G E 2 1 | N E W E R A
B U R C U K I C I K
F R O M B A R B I E T O B O D Y S H A M I N G :
T H E D A R K S I D E O F S O C I A L M E D I A
A N D B E A U T Y
Social media has had a significant impact on the way we
perceive beauty. With the proliferation of platforms like
Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, it has never been easier
for people to present a polished and perfected version of
themselves to the world. However, this constant exposure
to highly stylized and edited images of beauty can have
negative consequences, particularly for young people who
may be struggling with their own body image and
self-esteem (Tiggemann and Slater, 2014).
One of the most significant ways in which social media has
impacted the perception of beauty is through the promotion
of the "Barbie" beauty ideal (Tiggemann and Slater, 2014).
This ideal, which emphasizes thinness, a lack of body hair,
and large breasts and buttocks, is often perpetuated
and large breasts and buttocks, is often perpetuated
by influencers on social media platforms who use Photoshop and other
editing tools to present an idealized version of themselves to their
followers. This constant exposure to the "perfect" body can lead to
anxiety and feelings of inadequacy among those who do not fit the ideal.
It can also contribute to the objectification and sexualization of women,
as the emphasis is often on their appearance rather than their
intelligence or personality (Kuyper et al., 2017).
The Victoria's Secret fashion show, which has been
airing annually since 1995, has had a significant
impact on the perception of beauty around the world.
The show, which features lingerie models known as
"Angels," has become known for its highly stylized and
sexualized depiction of women's bodies. The Angels,
who are typically tall and thin with large breasts and
buttocks, are seen as the epitome of beauty and
femininity.