Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

The Impact of Short Video Content on Users' Self-Perception of Body Image and Appearance: An Empirical Study

Yuetong ZhangArt and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada* Ziyue WangJournalism and Communication, Anhui University, Hefei, China Simon LiCollege of Letter and Science, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA Yidan ChenKunming Rain Town School

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

At present, short video platforms are becoming increasingly popular, which has gradually affected many audiences' cognition of life and self. This study investigates how short video platforms affect the public's attitudes towards their own appearance and body image, focusing on the perceptions and behaviors of a diverse sample of individuals who are primarily composed of individuals. The survey found that although beauty and fashion are not the top concerns for all users, users still focus on the person's appearance and body image when watching unrelated videos. This suggests that users may be unconsciously anxious about their appearance, which leads them to focus more on facial and physical features than on the core of the video content. Women show higher attention in the Fashion & Beauty, Culinary & Food, and Travel categories and compare themselves more often. But the rest of the users reported that they don't easily succumb to popular aesthetic standards, and that social media use moderately impacts mood. Analysis revealed gender disparities, notably with female users displaying heightened interest in fashion, beauty, and self-comparison behaviors. The study acknowledges limitations in sample size and demographic focus on Chinese-speaking populations, limiting broader applicability. Methodologically, it relied on self-reported data due to challenges in anonymously tracking user behavior across platforms, occasionally causing respondent confusion despite efforts to clarify survey wording. Future research should explore male users' experiences and how short video platforms affect self-awareness of facial and bodily features. This study advances understanding of digital media's impact on body image perception and calls for further investigation across diverse demographics.

Keywords: short-video platforms; body image; appearance perception; user behavior; gender differences
Published: May 15, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2024.22755
Volume: CHR Vol.59
pp. 73-80
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