The Impact of Photo Manipulation and Social Appearance Anxiety on Body Self Esteem

Abstract

The present study explored the relationship between social appearance anxiety, photo editing behavior, and body self-esteem among university students. With the increasing influence of social media on self-image and personal presentation, the research aimed to understand how these psychological variables interact in the context of digital self-representation. A total of 300 university students participated in the study. Data were gathered using three standardized instruments: the Photo Manipulation Scale developed by McLean et al., Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale, and the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale. This study contributes to the growing body of literature addressing the psychological impacts of photo editing practices, offering insights relevant to mental health awareness, media literacy, and body image concerns in young adults.