Active and healthy lifestyles through social media influencers: perceptions of university students.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/mq6a5647Keywords:
youth, gender, ohysical activity, mental health, healthy habitsAbstract
The main objective of this study was to analyze the advantages and disadvantages perceived by university students regarding the promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle through social media influencers, as well as to identify possible differences according to gender and level of physical activity (PA). To this end, a qualitative study was conducted in which 63 university students (19 men and 44 women), aged between 18 and 41 years, were interviewed. Most participants identified the easy access to content and the influencers' capacity to inspire and motivate the adoption of healthy habits as the main advantages. When differentiated by gender, women particularly highlighted the motivational role of influencers and their function as role models, whereas men mainly valued the improvement of sports performance and the acquisition of healthy habits. According to the level of PA, differences in the perceived advantages were minimal. Regarding disadvantages, a considerable group of participants reported not perceiving any negative effects associated with this type of content. However, among those who did acknowledge problematic aspects, the main concern was the potential distortion of body image, associated with social comparison processes and aesthetic pressure, particularly emphasized by women and by students with low and moderate levels of PA. Likewise, a lack of knowledge and professional qualifications among some influencers was highlighted, an aspect more frequently mentioned by men and by participants with high levels of PA. In conclusion, although influencers may act as facilitators of healthy habits, their impact is not without risks, especially when they disseminate unverified information or reinforce unrealistic body ideals. Therefore, it is necessary to foster critical thinking and to promote content created by qualified professionals who prioritize the user's holistic well-being.
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