Scrolling for Strength: How Instagram Is Reshaping Young Men's Body Image

About this episode

This episode explores the impact of Instagram on young men's body image and mental health.

In this episode, we explore how Instagram influencers are quietly reshaping what it means to “look like a man.” Because of social media, parents need to talk to their sons about their bodies. Drawing on insights from a recent academic study, we unpack the impact of idealized, hyper-muscular male images online—and how they’re affecting young men’s mental health. From body dissatisfaction to disordered eating, we discuss the psychological toll of social comparison, the role of self-schema, and the pressure to measure up. Featuring a mix of content analysis, expert interviews, and influencer perspectives, this episode asks: what happens when masculinity gets filtered? And how can we reclaim a healthier vision of the male body?

People in this episode

Host: Anthony B. Bradley

Topics covered

• body image
• social media
• mental health
• masculinity
• influencers
• body dissatisfaction

Keywords

• Instagram
• body image
• mental health
• masculinity
• social comparison
• disordered eating
• influencers

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Instagram, academic study

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