EFFECTS OF EXCESSIVE MEDIA EXPOSURE ON BODY IMAGE AS PERCEIVED BY GRADE 11 HUMMS STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Media consumption is an integral part of daily life, encompassing television, movies, social media, and advertising. Constant exposure to images and messages shapes perceptions of beauty and body ideals. This study explores the relationship between media consumption habits and their impact on individuals’ body perception. With increasing concerns about body image issues and their psychological and physical consequences, it is crucial to understand how media influences self-perception. This research aims to examine the effects of media exposure on body image, self-esteem, and overall well-being. By analyzing these influences, the study seeks to provide insights into strategies and interventions that promote healthier self-perception and mitigate negative media effects. Erin Heger (2022), describes descriptive research focuses on understanding and explaining "what is." It involves the systematic description, recording, analysis, and interpretation of a phenomenon’s current nature, composition, or processes. This research method examines prevailing conditions and how individuals, groups, or objects behave or function in the present. Additionally, it often includes comparisons or contrasts to provide deeper insights into the subject being studied. The overuse of media consumption affects body image perception among Grade 11 Humanities and Social Sciences students. In assessing this impact, the weighted mean for the statement "Practicing self-control can be an effective way to prevent media overuse" was 3.36, with a verbal interpretation of "Agree." The second statement received a weighted mean of 3.21, also interpreted as "Agree." The third-ranked statement, "Replacing social content with educational content," had a weighted mean of 3.11. The overall composite mean was 3.23, with a verbal description of "Agree."  According to Vandenbode (2022), different social media platforms have distinct features that influence body image. Visual-based platforms, such as Instagram, tend to have a more negative impact on body image, while text-based platforms like Facebook exhibit different but still significant effects. Additionally, activities such as taking and editing selfies—regardless of whether they are posted—can contribute to negative body image perceptions. Self-Confidence is demonstrated by trusting yourself and maintaining a sense of control over your life, with a weighted mean of 3.36. Setting realistic expectations and goals received a weighted mean of 3.21. Recognizing strengths and weaknesses while maintaining a positive self-view had a weighted mean of 3.11.