Sexualised images of females on social media and the mental health and wellbeing of adolescent girls

This PhD research explored how sexualised images of females found on social media might influence adolescent girls’ mental health, what support girls might need if mental health difficulties are experienced and how such difficulties could be prevented/reduced, from the perspectives of adolescent girls, parents, school support service staff and youth mental health service providers. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and analysed thematically. Findings suggest girls' body image may be negatively influenced by their interactions with sexualised images on social media. They also suggest a need for strategies that promote positive body image, social media literacy and help-seeking.