Around 70 per cent of young people are at least "fairly satisfied" with their appearance. Nevertheless, more than half (51 pe rcent) would like to change something about their body, among girls the percentage is even 60 percent. 61 per cent post photos or videos of themselves and put great effort into their appearance. It is important to look beautiful (68 per cent), styled (64 per cent) and slim (54 per cent).

Looking sexy is important for 34 per cent, which is more important for boys (40 per cent) than for girls (27 per cent). Social media influences whether you think you are beautiful - this is the opinion of two-thirds of young people (65 per cent). Girls (76 per cent) and respondents aged 15 (78 per cent) agree with this statement. Comparisons with others play a major role. It is particularly easy to compare yourself online. Almost three-quarters (71 per cent) of young people confirm that the images they consume on social media lead them to compare themselves with other people. Over a quarter (27 per cent) emphasise the negative consequences and say they feel bad after scrolling through social media feeds. Around half (53 per cent) say that they have already changed something about their own appearance based on the images they have consumed. Just as many young people have already bought products recommended by influencers. 

Young people not only have to deal with unrealistic beauty ideals on the internet, but they also have to worry about receiving harassment about their appearance. 74 per cent have already observed such a situation. 

We asked the young people about strategies for dealing with the pressure of beauty ideals. These include dealing with self-awareness. Working on self-acceptance (67 per cent), actively trying not to be put under pressure (60 per cent) and reflect why the content causes stress or pressure (55 per cent) are seen as helpful. Another option mentioned by the young people in the focus groups was a "reality check" - in other words, "going out and checking how people really are". This makes you realise the gap between the biased online between people's online appearance and offline appearance. Another strategy young people use is the mindful use of social networks. This includes spending less time on social networks (63 per cent), taking social media breaks (60 per cent) and specifically following influencers or content that is good for you (60 per cent). Personal support is also perceived as relevant, for instance, complimenting each other about one's appearance. 38 per cent think it helps to make fun of stressful things and laugh about them.  

Even if young people are aware of these strategies, they find it difficult to put them into practice. Spending less time on social networks is a good approach; however, the focus groups showed that young people often find it difficult to escape the magnetic force of online content. The final question was how young people should learn to deal consciously with beauty ideals. Here, teachers, online platforms and parents were mentioned primarily. 

About the survey:  

In December 2023, 400 adolescents aged 11 to 17 were surveyed representatively based on age, gender, and educational background. Additionally, four focus group discussions were conducted with 56 youths aged 13 to 19. 

Find out more about Safer Internet Day in Austria. Alternatively, find out more about the work of the Austrian Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline and youth participation services – or find similar information for Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.