Body image and social media in the transgender population
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An exploratory study on the influence of social media on body image in the transgender population.
IRAS ID
319285
Contact name
Kerry Young
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 8 months, 21 days
Research summary
Summary of Research
Transgender is the term used to identify those whose gender identity is different from the gender assigned at birth, known as gender dysphoria, a key element of which is low body image. Studies have found that body image improves once individuals transition closer to their identity. It is known that social media can have a negative impact on body image, however, limited research has been carried out within the transgender community.Individuals who are currently accessing the NHS Grampian Gender Identity Clinic will be invited and asked for their consent to attend a focus group to discuss social media and body image. Those who have a diagnosed eating disorder or who are at risk of disordered eating will not be invited to participate as the topic may be triggering. Four focus groups will be held with six participants in each.
During the focus group, the researcher will guide the discussion using previously constructed questions. These will prompt broad discussion around the impact social media has on body image for those who are transgender.
These groups will be audio recorded and stored safely. The researcher will write out what was shared within the group and analyse the topics discussed, identifying themes. No preconceptions will be held by the researcher and will be guided by the content solely. Themes may include how social media positively or negatively impacts body image.
The findings of this research will provide further understanding of the part social media plays on body image for the transgender community and may help to inform future research. This study may also help to notify us of the relationship with social media and guide interventions on best social media use.
Summary of Results
This study found several themes evident across participants, all of whom identified as transgender. The main themes included the identification of social media providing a community, acknowledged helpful practices of social media use, an evolving body image, and acknowledged pressure to meet specific standards portrayed on social media.These themes can be further broken down. Through social media, participants reported an opportunity to learn about the trans community, observe the variety and diversity present within this group, and allowed participants to cultivate a safe space within social media. Participants noted that through social media use, several helpful practices were found through developing a relationship with social media use, identifying when to take breaks, and growing awareness of the insidious nature of social media. It was additionally acknowledged that through the trans community within social media, there was an identified pressure to meet particular standards, including cis (those in which gender identity aligns with sex assigned at birth) standards, and standards of an 'ideal' trans person. The theme of evolving body image was explored further with participants highlighting the opposite ends of the spectrum shared on social media, the impact of comparing the self to others and the impact of harsh comments shared on social media. From the shared reports of participants, beneficial processes included a shift towards acceptance of the self, and acknowledging the complexity of the individual which cannot be captured through social media alone.
Overall, a mix of helpful and harmful practices of social media were raised by participants. Whilst there is the ability to form connections within the community, there is also the opportunity to compare, which can have a negative impact on body image. Building on the acceptance of oneself and considering the complexity of the self highlighted the possible protection from the insidious nature of social media.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 02
REC reference
23/SS/0021
Date of REC Opinion
12 May 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion