Nutrients (Jul 2024)
Exploring the Associations between Media and Instagram Interaction Patterns with Weight Bias among Undergraduate Nutrition Students in the Brazilian Nutritionists’ Health Study
Abstract
This study examined the association between media and Instagram interaction patterns with weight bias among undergraduate nutrition students in the Brazilian Nutritionists’ Health Study. We also explored the potential mediating role of students’ own body image perception in these relationships. A total of 406 students (78% women) participated in this cross-sectional analysis. Sociodemographic data, media influence, Instagram interaction patterns, body image perception, and weight bias were assessed using semi-structured questionnaires. Findings indicated that exposure to fitness content on Instagram (β = 0.17, p β = 0.12, p = 0.034) were associated with increased weight bias. In contrast, engagement with body diversity content (β = −0.23, p β = −0.24, p p > 0.05). In conclusion, this study revealed a link between media exposure and weight bias among undergraduate nutrition students, independent of their body image perception. Developing social media literacy programs that encourage students to critically evaluate media content is imperative to reduce weight bias. Additionally, a deeper examination of the media content that contributes to weight bias and the potential need for targeted regulatory measures is warranted.
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