Social media’s influence on body image is a pressing contemporary issue that has gained significant attention in recent years. This topic has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being relevant in future exams. Let’s examine a specific question related to this theme and provide sample essays to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that social media has a negative impact on people’s body image and self-esteem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question asks for your opinion on the relationship between social media and body image/self-esteem. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which means you should clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, the pervasive influence of social media on various aspects of our lives is undeniable. When it comes to body image and self-esteem, I strongly agree that social media often exerts a negative impact on individuals, particularly young people.

Firstly, social media platforms are flooded with carefully curated images of seemingly perfect bodies, often enhanced by filters and editing tools. This constant exposure to unrealistic beauty standards can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with one’s own appearance. For instance, a study by the Royal Society for Public Health found that Instagram, a popular image-sharing platform, was rated as the worst social media app for young people’s mental health and body image.

Moreover, the culture of comparison fostered by social media can be detrimental to self-esteem. Users frequently measure their worth against the number of likes, comments, or followers they receive, which can create a toxic cycle of seeking validation through online engagement. This phenomenon, known as “social comparison,” has been linked to increased rates of depression and anxiety among frequent social media users.

However, it’s important to note that social media’s impact is not entirely negative. Some platforms have begun to promote body positivity and diversity, showcasing a wider range of body types and encouraging self-acceptance. Additionally, social media can provide a supportive community for individuals struggling with body image issues, offering a space for shared experiences and encouragement.

In conclusion, while there are some positive aspects, I believe the overall impact of social media on body image and self-esteem is predominantly negative. To mitigate these effects, it’s crucial for individuals to develop critical media literacy skills and for social media companies to take responsibility for promoting healthier online environments.

(Word count: 275)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

I agree that social media can have a bad effect on how people see their bodies and feel about themselves. There are several reasons for this.

Firstly, social media is full of pictures of people who look perfect. Many of these photos are edited to make people look better than they really do. When people see these images all the time, they might start to think their own bodies are not good enough. For example, a teenager might feel bad about themselves because they don’t look like the models they see on Instagram.

Secondly, social media makes it easy for people to compare themselves to others. People often post only their best moments and best photos online. This can make others feel like their own lives are not as good. They might think, “Why don’t I look as happy or as beautiful as my friends on Facebook?”

However, social media is not all bad for body image. Some people use it to share positive messages about loving your body the way it is. There are also groups on social media where people can support each other and feel better about themselves.

In conclusion, I think social media mostly has a negative impact on body image and self-esteem. But there are some good things too. It’s important for people to remember that what they see on social media is not always real and to try not to compare themselves too much to others online.

(Word count: 237)

Social media impact on body image

Writing Tips

When addressing this topic, consider the following:

1. Clarity of position: Clearly state your opinion in the introduction and maintain consistency throughout the essay.
2. Balanced argument: Even if you agree with the statement, acknowledge the opposing viewpoint to demonstrate a nuanced understanding.
3. Specific examples: Use concrete examples or studies to support your points, as seen in the Band 8-9 essay.
4. Cohesion and coherence: Use appropriate linking words to connect ideas and paragraphs smoothly.
5. Vocabulary range: Employ topic-specific vocabulary and a variety of expressions to showcase your language proficiency.

Key Vocabulary

1. Body image (noun) /ˈbɒdi ˈɪmɪdʒ/ – The perception that a person has of their physical self.
2. Self-esteem (noun) /ˌselfɪˈstiːm/ – Confidence in one’s own worth or abilities.
3. Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – Spreading widely throughout an area or group of people.
4. Curated (adjective) /ˈkjʊəreɪtɪd/ – Carefully chosen and presented.
5. Inadequacy (noun) /ɪnˈædɪkwəsi/ – The state of being not good enough or lacking in some way.
6. Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – Tending to cause harm.
7. Validation (noun) /ˌvælɪˈdeɪʃn/ – Recognition or affirmation that a person or their feelings or opinions are valid or worthwhile.
8. Body positivity (noun phrase) /ˈbɒdi ˌpɒzəˈtɪvəti/ – The assertion that all people deserve to have a positive body image, regardless of societal standards.

Conclusion

The impact of social media on body image is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays, you can improve your ability to address this theme effectively. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. As you prepare, consider practicing with similar topics such as how social media affects mental health or the impact of social media on self-image.

To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.