Filtered Realities: The Impact of TikTok Beauty Trends on Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Young Adults

Abstract

The rapid rise of social media particularly TikTok has reshaped how young people perceive beauty and body image. TikTok’s algorithm-driven content and viral beauty trends often promote unrealistic and highly filtered appearance standards. This study examined how such trends affect the psychological well-being of young adults in Pakistan, specifically in relation to Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 200 university students aged 18–25 in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar through convenience sampling. Participants completed the Appearance Anxiety Inventory (AAI) and a TikTok usage questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and linear regression were applied. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between exposure to TikTok beauty trends and BDD symptoms (r = .58, p < .001). Regression findings showed that TikTok trend involvement explained 34% of the variance in BDD scores, demonstrating strong predictive influence. The study highlights the harmful psychological effects of prolonged exposure to idealized beauty content, including increased appearance anxiety and distorted self-image. It recommends implementing digital media literacy programs and mental health prevention strategies in educational institutions. The findings underscore the urgent need for further research on social media’s psychological impact on body image in developing countries with limited awareness and mental health resources.

Keywords: TikTok, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Beauty Trends, Adolescents, Pakistan, Social Media, Body Image