The role of social media in promoting eating disorders east Africa

Agbo Afred T.

Department of Public Administration Kampala International University Uganda

                                                 ABSTRACT

Eating disorders (EDs) pose significant challenges to public health globally, with rising prevalence rates observed in East Africa, particularly among adolescents and young adults. This increase can be attributed to various factors, including cultural transitions, urbanization, and changing beauty standards. Social media platforms have become integral to East African society, influencing communication, cultural norms, and economic activities. However, the relationship between social media and eating disorders is complex, with idealized images and diet culture contributing to negative body image and disordered eating behaviors. This paper explores the impact of social media on body image, the influence of celebrity culture and influencers, the proliferation of pro-eating disorder content online, the role of peer influence and social comparison, cyberbullying and online shaming, the spread of misinformation, cultural and societal factors, coping mechanisms, and support resources. Additionally, it discusses the need for regulatory measures and policy implications to address harmful content and promote responsible social media use in East Africa.

Keywords Eating disorders, social media, East Africa, celebrity culture, influencers, pro-eating disorder content, peer influence, cyberbullying, misinformation.

CITE AS: Agbo Afred T. (2024). The role of social media in promoting eating disorders east Africa. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF CURRENT ISSUES IN ARTS AND MANAGEMENT 3(2):108-112.