A study led by IDIAPJGol researcher Eva Artigues Barberà has identified positive and negative factors for the emotional development of adolescents. Regarding the positive aspects, the study highlights the family and educational environment, as well as the presence of positive role models. In contrast, the factors that seem to negatively impact emotional development during adolescence include a lack of communication within the family and pressure from social media, among others. The authors of the study call for the implementation of community and school-based interventions that help improve young people’s emotional well-being.
Unrealistic beauty standards on social media
The findings of the research, published in the journal PLoS One, indicate that many adolescents experience body dissatisfaction due to constant comparison with unrealistic beauty standards spread through social media. Moreover, the influence of gender stereotypes makes girls particularly vulnerable to social pressure regarding physical appearance. On the other hand, the lack of communication with families and the limited training in self-esteem provided by educators make it even more difficult to manage this discomfort.
Conversely, when adolescents have the support of their families and participate in activities that promote acceptance of their own bodies, the risk of low self-esteem and disorders related to body image is significantly reduced.
The methodology used in the study is based on qualitative interviews with adolescents, parents and teachers from a rural school in Catalonia. The results suggest the need to design community interventions that include both individual and group activities, with a special focus on family and educational support. The researchers emphasize that strengthening facilitators and reducing barriers should guide future public health policies aimed at improving adolescents’ well-being.
This study falls within the context of the increase in mental health disorders among young people, especially since the covid-19 pandemic. In this regard, the research highlights the need to address self-esteem and body image through a multidisciplinary and preventive approach involving families, schools and the wider community.
Article reference
Key factors in supporting adolescents to achieve high self-esteem and a positive body image: A qualitative community-based study. Artigues-Barberà E, Tort-Nasarre G, Pollina-Pocallet M, Ferrer Suquet Y, Ayats Pallés A, Guasch Niubó O, Ortega-Bravo M, García-Martínez. E. PLoS One. 2025 Feb 25;20(2):e0318989. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0318989. eCollection 2025. PMID: 39999141 Free PMC article.
