Influencia de los medios de comunicación y las redes sociales en el desarrollo de los trastornos alimentarios en adolescentes.

Abstract

Introduction. Studies have highlighted the influence of social networks and media, such as television, advertising, and entertainment programs, on the development and maintenance of body dissatisfaction, generating indicators of the emergence of eating disorders; however, studies are not yet entirely conclusive. This study aimed to analyze this relationship to identify risk factors and propose solutions. Methodology. A descriptive literature review was conducted, encompassing publications from 2015 to 2023. Inclusion criteria were applied, selecting relevant studies in databases such as Scopus and PubMed. The sources were analyzed qualitatively to identify patterns and trends in the identification of 45 studies. Development. Research indicates a significant correlation between the intensive use of social networks, such as TikTok and Instagram, and increased body dissatisfaction. Similarly, exposure to beauty ideals presented on television, in advertisements, and in publications reinforces misconceptions about appearance. Exposure to idealized images and cyberbullying were found to act as risk factors, normalizing unattainable beauty standards and harmful eating behaviors. Conclusion. The study concluded that social networks and media are key factors in the development of eating disorders in adolescents. It is recommended to promote media literacy and conduct prevention campaigns in schools and families to mitigate these effects. Furthermore, the need for future research with more representative samples and consistent methodologies has been identified.