Section Article

The Role of Instagram in Shaping Teenage Body Image and Self-Worth
Author(s): Rahul Kumar

Abstract
In the digital era visual-centric social media platforms like Instagram have emerged as powerful influences on how teenagers perceive themselves and others. With its curated images influencer culture beauty filters and algorithm-driven engagement Instagram plays a crucial role in shaping teenage notions of attractiveness body ideals and self-worth. This paper investigates the psychological and sociocultural impact of Instagram on the body image and self-esteem of teenagers in urban India. Drawing on qualitative interviews with adolescents content analysis of Instagram trends and existing psychological literature the research reveals that Instagram promotes narrow beauty standards that contribute to dissatisfaction comparison anxiety and reduced self-worth particularly among teenage girls. However the platform also provides opportunities for body positivity self-expression and support when used critically. The paper concludes that the influence of Instagram is double-edged and fostering media literacy parental engagement and algorithmic accountability is essential to protect teenage mental health and self-identity.