Exploring the role of social media in body image perceptions and eating behaviours : lived experiences of female athletes : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Massey University

Abstract

Background: As social media use among adolescents and young adults has increased, body image dissatisfaction (BID) and eating disorders (ED) have risen. Existing research suggests female athletes are at greater risk of ED yet report lower levels of BID than non-athletes. Despite a growing body of research examining the relationship between social media, body image, and eating behaviours in the general population, few studies have examined its role in the experiences of female athletes. Aim: This qualitative study explored the dynamic relationships between social media use, body image, and eating behaviours of competitive female athletes in Aotearoa New Zealand. Methodology: Eight semi-structured Zoom interviews were conducted with female athletes between the ages of 18 to 24. Analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase reflexive thematic analysis (RTA), informed by my background as a former competitive athlete. Analysis: Three overarching themes were identified: ‘Risk Factors’, included the sub-themes of cultural normalisation of unhealthy ideals, coaches/family influence on training and nutrition, and misinformation and inadequate education; ‘Protective Factors’ consisted of social support, access to guidance and resources, and self-regulatory strategies; and ‘Navigating Social Media Pressures on Body Image and Eating Habits’, included comparison on social media and in person, internalisation of appearance norms and expectations, and disordered eating and exercise behaviours. Conclusion and Implications: Findings of this research indicated that athletes experience pressure to meet the athletic ideal, intensified and complicated by social media’s unrealistic expectations of the feminine body. Comparison was habitual, as athletes analysed their bodies, training, and food intake against peers and social media accounts, which in some cases led to changes in eating behaviours. A key finding highlighted that repeated social media exposure, even without direct engagement, contributed to the development of ‘imagined’ content, which elicited guilt on low-volume days, based on perceptions of others’ behaviour. Most athletes reported limited or no access to formal nutrition advice, with many turning to social media platforms for guidance. Coaches and family were identified as influential in supporting a balanced relationship with food and training. Developing online training modules focused on nutrition, body image, and social media awareness, alongside delivered workshops, are recommended to serve as an early intervention for adolescent girls, by addressing identity pressures, perceptions, and behaviours as they emerge before adulthood.