INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL MEDIA ON THE BODY IMAGE AND SELFESTEEM OF UNIBEN STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

In most Nigerian Universities today, the influence of digital media and its usage on her students is hard to determine and is often based on assumptions, which is why this study investigates the influence of digital media on body image and self-esteem among students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) on a sample size of 398. The research aims to understand the extent to which UNIBEN students are exposed to digital media content that shapes their perceptions of body image and self-esteem. Additionally, it explores the perceptions of students towards these digital media portrayals and the impact it has. The study further delves into investigating how exposure to digital media content influences the body image and self-esteem of UNIBEN students. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study examines substantial evidence linking digital media to body image issues and self-esteem concerns. It also explores how different types of digital media content can have varying effects on individuals' perceptions and usage which supports the use of diffusion of innovation theoretical framework. The survey research method accompanied with representative sampling technique was employed to gather data for the study. Based on the research outcomes, the study finds that digital media has more of a notable positive impact on the body image and self-esteem of UNIBEN students than negative on 84.7%. This study therefore recommends that through recognizing the impact of digital media content, we can take positive approach to its usage to make the world a safe global space for University students.