From Likes to Distress: The Link Between Instagram Use, Muscle Dysmorphia, andPsychological Well-being"

Abstract

In the digital era of self-presentation, Instagram platforms among other platforms has become an
emergent and dominant in shaping the body perceptions in youth. This study investigates the
relationship between Instagram use, muscle dysmorphia (MD), and psychological distress in late
adolescents (15–17 years) and young adult males (18–25 years). Employing a comparative crosssectional design, 150 male gym-goers who reported active Instagram use were recruited through
purposive sampling. The Appearance-Related Social Media Consciousness Scale (adapted for
Instagram), the Drive for Muscularity Scale, and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale were
used to gather data. Results revealed strong positive correlations between Instagram use and MD
(r = .70, p < .01), Instagram use and psychological distress (r = .55, p < .01), and MD and
psychological distress (r = .60, p < .01). Regression analyses further confirmed that MD
significantly mediated the relationship between Instagram use and psychological distress, with
Instagram use predicting 49% of the variance in MD, and MD partially accounting for the variance
in distress levels (ΔR² = .14). These findings highlight the psychological risks associated with high
appearance-focused engagement on Instagram, especially in developmental stages marked by
heightened body image vulnerability. The study underscores the need for preventive strategies and
digital literacy programs to address body dissatisfaction and emotional distress linked to social
media exposure. Interventions targeting appearance comparison and unrealistic muscular ideals
are crucial in fostering healthier social media use and promoting psychological well-being among
adolescent and young adult males.