The Influence of Instagram Aesthetics on Mental Health

Instagram dominates social media, serving as a platform for self-expression and societal validation. As a user, you might have pondered whether your Instagram should have a theme, or you've certainly come across profiles boasting an "Instagram aesthetic." This aesthetic, often described as an obsession with beauty, is more than just a visual preference; it's a societal phenomenon with profound implications. In her article "The Joy of Instagram," author Megan Garber argues that capturing experiences does not detract from them but amplifies enjoyment.

However, there's an essential question to consider: what is the point of capturing a moment if we alter it to fit a curated feed? This essay explores how Instagram aesthetics, achieved through filters, staged candids, and strategic edits, shape our perceptions and impact mental health.

Aesthetic Perfection

Instagram aesthetics are not merely about visual appeal; they represent a carefully constructed illusion of order and perfection. Harmonized and color-coordinated photos create a false sense of tranquility, masking the inherent chaos of our lives. The societal obsession with these aesthetics fosters superficial tendencies and promotes an unrealistic pursuit of perfection, which has far-reaching effects on mental health. As I scroll through Instagram, I am inundated with images of seemingly perfect lives—vacations, romantic moments, and meticulously plated meals—all enhanced to perfection. These curated posts depict a life of contentment, leading users to strive for flawless portrayals, often through editing both their bodies and environments.

The statistics are telling. According to research by beautyheaven.com.au, 57% of women admit to altering their images for social media. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of women surveyed insist on approving friends' photos before they're posted, and 60% untag themselves from unsatisfactory images. This behavior suggests that Instagram users seek societal approval rather than viewing the platform as an opportunity for authentic self-expression. Filters are applied to enhance photos, making them 21% more likely to be viewed and 45% more likely to receive comments, according to research by Bakhshi.

Instagram Editing Apps

The demand for aesthetically pleasing Instagram profiles has led to the creation of apps like "Plann," "Preview," "Unum," and "Plainly." These apps assist users in curating the perfect feed, offering tools to enhance and coordinate photos seamlessly. However, with millions using these apps, the result is an unoriginal aesthetic that reflects society's perception of beauty rather than individual authenticity. In an experiment, I posted an unedited photo on Instagram—a candid moment at the beach with friends. Unlike my other edited posts, it received significantly fewer likes and comments, illustrating the inverse relationship between authentic moments and the curated images that dominate our feeds.

The Dual Nature of Instagram

In response to the pressures of maintaining a perfect Instagram presence, many users create "Finstas"—fake Instagram accounts where they share genuine aspects of their lives with a select audience. These accounts offer a more honest portrayal of self, deviating from the polished personas showcased on "real" Instagram profiles. For the generation raised on social media, Instagram has become a personal resume, leading to a fear of self-expression and conformity to societal norms. Despite the popularity of Instagram, with 76% of young Americans using it regularly, users often experience overwhelming pressure and insecurity.

The story of Essena O’Neill, an Australian teenager with over half a million followers, is particularly telling. She made headlines by quitting Instagram, calling it "contrived perfection made to get attention." Such sentiments highlight the platform's potential to exacerbate existing insecurities and contribute to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. In 2017, the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK ranked Instagram as the worst app for young people's mental health, underscoring its detrimental effects.

Redefining Instagram

As a young woman immersed in Instagram culture, I often grapple with feelings of inadequacy. The platform's unrealistic beauty standards exacerbate my insecurities, fostering anxiety and self-doubt. The pervasive use of photo editing promotes unattainable ideals, making it challenging to embrace one's unique identity. Comparing oneself to curated images cultivates a toxic culture of comparison and self-criticism. No one's life is as perfect as portrayed on Instagram, yet the pressure to conform persists, detracting from genuine self-expression and individualism.

To mitigate Instagram's harmful effects, we must shift our focus from aesthetics to authenticity. By embracing imperfections and celebrating diversity, we can transform the platform into a space for true self-expression. Unfollowing accounts that trigger insecurity and sharing content that reflects our authentic selves are small yet impactful steps. Instagram aesthetics, while visually appealing, promote an impractical pursuit of perfection that undermines individuality. By challenging societal beauty standards and fostering acceptance, we can harness Instagram's potential for positive self-expression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Instagram aesthetic, with its emphasis on curated perfection, poses significant challenges to mental health and self-identity. While the platform offers opportunities for connection and creativity, its current trajectory promotes unrealistic standards that stifle individuality. By fostering a culture of authenticity and self-acceptance, we can redefine Instagram's role in our lives. Embracing diversity, celebrating imperfections, and prioritizing genuine self-expression will empower users to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and resilience. As Instagram continues to shape our perceptions, let us strive for a more inclusive and authentic digital experience that celebrates the beauty of our unique identities.

Did you like this example?

720

38