A study conducted by York University in Toronto, Canada, revealed that images of American reality TV star Kim Kardashian have led to increased body dissatisfaction among young women. The "thin-thick" ideal body shape defined by researchers as "curvy," characterized by a small waist, flat stomach, and larger buttocks and breasts, has recently gained more prominence in mainstream media.
Researchers noted that social media trends of 2021 show that the hashtags #thick, #thicc, and #slimthick have 6.2 million, 3.4 million, and 1 million posts on Instagram, respectively, while the hashtag #slimthicc has 134 million tags on TikTok. Researchers Sarah McComb and Jennifer Mills studied the relationship between body models and body satisfaction, surveying 402 women aged 18 to 25 who use the Instagram app. The group of women viewed 13 images of social media influencers with varying body types, characterized by slimness and fitness.
The study found that the "thin-thick" body type actually led to "more dissatisfaction with weight and appearance." According to the study, striving for perfection in appearance, such as attempting to attain Kardashian's body in an unhealthy manner, can lead to eating disorders, unhealthy weight control behaviors, low self-esteem, and social anxiety. As social media becomes saturated with the focus on the "thin-thick" body type, the study suggests that it may be beneficial to click "unfollow." The study recommended that women follow individuals who inspire them and make them feel more confident.
