Date

1-9-2024

Department

School of Communication and the Arts

Degree

Master of Arts in Communication (MA)

Chair

John Dunkle

Keywords

TikTok, Generation Z, body image, beauty standards, upward comparisons

Disciplines

Communication

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to address TikTok’s role in the comparative behaviors among Generation Z females. This study specifically evaluated the communication of society’s perception of beauty standards and how it resonates with and influences TikTok users. A qualitative approach was taken to gain a better understanding of the lived experiences of participants and fill the gap in qualitative media effects research. The research question being addressed was: How has TikTok influenced society's idea of physical beauty and body image concerns among Generation Z females? Through the lens of social comparison theory, the research found that the application TikTok itself plays a reinforcement role in communicating physical beauty standards and creates more opportunities for upward comparisons and therefore negative body image concerns among Generation Z females. Findings also show that content surrounding the physicality of an individual, like fitness and fashion content, leads to more upward comparisons and therefore negative body image concerns. Additional findings also include the positive mental health effects of TikTok and user lifestyle comparisons.

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