How social media affects body image in early adolescents

Social Media Use in Early Adolescence: Implications for Body Image

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11047205

This study looks at how using social media affects how kids aged 10 to 12 feel about their bodies, and it wants to understand how their parents might influence their social media experiences.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11047205 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social media use on body image concerns among early adolescents aged 10 to 12. It aims to understand how these young individuals engage with social media and how this engagement influences their perceptions of body image. The study will utilize advanced methodologies to assess visual attention biases towards digital content and explore the role of parental influence in shaping adolescents' interactions with social media. By focusing on this critical developmental period, the research seeks to provide insights into the mental health challenges faced by early adolescents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are early adolescents aged 10 to 12 who actively use social media.

Not a fit: Patients outside the early adolescent age range or those who do not use social media may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for supporting healthy body image and mental health among adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between social media use and body image concerns, but this study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding through innovative methodologies.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.