Does Social Media Hold Gen Z’s Self-Worth Hostage?

Inside the Cycle of Seeking Validation Through Likes

Sandy
2 min readMay 29, 2023

The Allure of the Online Persona

In today’s digital age, Gen Z has embraced social media as a platform for self-expression. With a few taps and filters, they can create an online persona that projects an idealized version of themselves. This allure is undeniable, as the number of followers, likes, and comments become a measure of social validation and popularity.

The Quest for Perfection in a Digital Age

Gen Z’s obsession with self-image is fueled by the pursuit of perfection in the digital realm. Constantly bombarded with images of flawless bodies, luxurious lifestyles, and seemingly effortless achievements, they strive to meet these unrealistic standards. Filters and editing tools become their allies in curating an image that fits the mold, perpetuating the cycle of comparison and self-doubt.

Comparison and FOMO

Comparison and the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) play significant roles in Gen Z’s self-image obsession. Scrolling through social media feeds, they witness their peers’ highlight reels, triggering feelings of inadequacy and the need to keep up. Comparing their own lives to…

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