Self-image/Self-esteem

Should self-esteem and self-worth be forged by one’s self-image? Are they completely interdependent? With the current social media environment, I do not believe they can be separated. Social media is harshly critical of physical appearances and meeting the ridiculous standards set forth by social media and peers precludes the ability to separate them. Millennials and Gen-Xers cannot be pulled away from their social media feeds. They feign and swoon with every like, view, and/or comment.

Photo filters alter and distort attempting to correct some exaggerated flaw pointed out by some random follower. Body dysmorphic disorder is on the rise across all ages. Men and women obsessed with ‘likes’ to the point of physical and mental health deterioration. This pattern does not seem to be going away. Strangers dictate their self-image, shattering their self-esteem, and in turn, diminishing their self-worth.

Let’s hope the “Me Too” movement has a spillover influence on the self-value this generation has in the future. That they will base their self-worth on their opinions of themselves, not by a media platform and trolls.