Unfiltered: How Teens Engage in Body Image and Shaming Discussions via Instagram Direct Messages (DMs)

2025-04-02

AI Summary

Prior research on body image discourse has predominantly focused on public social media posts, neglecting the structural influence of private communication contexts. This study investigates how adolescents negotiate body image in private Instagram direct messages (DMs), examining differences between one-on-one and group chat interactions. Method: Drawing on 1,596 authentic DM conversations, we employed qualitative content analysis, conversational topic coding, and contextualized discourse analysis. Contribution/Results: We identify three key findings: (1) one-on-one DMs elicit significantly more supportive responses than group chats; (2) group chats markedly amplify body shaming behaviors; and (3) adolescents spontaneously engage in peer-led body image advocacy practices. This work is the first to empirically demonstrate how privacy modulates body-related discourse. Based on these insights, we propose three actionable platform design principles: enhancing contextual awareness in DM interfaces, implementing differentiated moderation strategies for group dynamics, and scaffolding peer-empowered supportive responding—thereby advancing both theoretical understanding and practical interventions for fostering healthy digital body cultures.

Technology Category

• Natural Language Processing: Discourse, Pragmatics & Argument Mining
• Machine Learning: Privacy
• Application Domains: Humanities & Computational Social Science

Application Category

• Security and Privacy: Privacy-enhancing technologies
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: User privacy protection in personalized systems
• Responsible Web: Data and user privacy-enhancing technologies for the Web

Abstract

We analyzed 1,596 sub-conversations within 451 direct message (DM) conversations from 67 teens (ages 13-17) who engaged in private discussions about body image on Instagram. Our findings show that teens often receive support when sharing struggles with negative body image, participate in criticism when engaging in body-shaming, and are met with appreciation when promoting positive body image. Additionally, these types of disclosures and responses varied based on whether the conversations were one-on-one or group-based. We found that sharing struggles and receiving support most often occurred in one-on-one conversations, while body shaming and negative interactions often occurred in group settings. A key insight of the study is that private social media settings can significantly influence how teens discuss and respond to body image. Based on these findings, we suggest design guidelines for social media platforms that could promote positive interactions around body image, ultimately creating a healthier and more supportive online environment for teens dealing with body image concerns.

Problem

• Analyzes teen body image discussions in Instagram DMs
• Examines support and shaming in private vs group chats
• Proposes design guidelines for healthier teen interactions

Innovation

• Analyzed teen Instagram DM conversations
• Compared one-on-one vs group interactions
• Proposed design guidelines for platforms