The under 35s are now more likely than their elders to go under the knife to obtain a “perfect” nose, “beautiful” buttocks, but above all an “instagramable” profile.
Because it is the major change of recent decades: the very broad use of social networks. Their influence is all the greater on self-image, especially among the youngest.
Omnipresent influencers on a daily basis
According to Dr. Bruno Rocher, an addictologist specializing in non-substance addictions and eating disorders, the frequency of exposure to models plays an important role.
“Before the advent of social networks, the models were the actresses and actors or the singers and singers that we saw a few times a year, on the occasion of a film, a television show or in a magazine. », he explains. “Today, the influencers who have replaced them are omnipresent in the lives of young people. They see them from morning to evening on their smartphone. »
Another element of aggravation of the influence of these instagramers and other tiktokers: filters. “The unreal faces behind these modifying screens are presented as reality”, he explains. This new standard, even more difficult to achieve than the already operated faces of former stars, “obsess our young patients”, he reports.
A pathological tendency?
Is this, however, a sign of real trouble among these young people? It obviously depends on the case. But according to the psychiatrist, the only recourse to cosmetic surgery is not a pathology.
This does not exclude dysmorphophobia or Body dysmorphic disordercharacterized by a preoccupation with at least one perceived defect in physical appearance that is not apparent or appears slight to other people,” defines the American Psychiatric Association. This preoccupation causes significant distress and a deterioration of social life.
An addiction can also occur, which corresponds to “an addiction to a substance or an activity, with deleterious consequences”, recalls the Interministerial Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Addictive Behaviors (Mildeca). And this repeatedly.
In any case, it is indeed a “major influence on an entire generation”, insists Dr. Rocher. Which can lead to drifts. Fortunately, not all young people bow to these dictates.
On the other hand, other emerging trends on social networks make it possible to somewhat counteract these images of false perfection. Thus, body positive and the fight against grossophobia aim to help everyone accept themselves as they are.
