Body image and mental health have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Analysis of past exam questions shows this theme appearing roughly once every 3-4 months, especially in questions about social media, youth wellbeing, and modern lifestyle impacts. Let’s examine one common question type that has appeared multiple times:
Some people believe that unrealistic body image standards promoted by social media and advertising negatively affect young people’s mental health. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on the relationship between media-promoted body standards and youth mental health
- Provide specific examples and evidence to support their argument
- Consider both direct and indirect impacts
- Discuss potential solutions or implications
The impact of social media on the mental health of young adults has become a critical issue worth examining in detail.
Band 9 Sample Essay
Modern society’s obsession with perfect body images, amplified through social media platforms and advertising, undoubtedly has severe psychological consequences for young people. I strongly agree that these unrealistic standards negatively impact mental health, and this essay will explore the primary reasons behind this phenomenon.
Firstly, constant exposure to idealized body images creates unrealistic expectations and diminishes self-worth. When young people continuously view carefully curated and often digitally altered images on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, they inevitably compare themselves to these unattainable standards. This comparison frequently leads to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, as documented in numerous psychological studies.
The effects of social media on body image among teenagers demonstrate that the problem extends beyond mere dissatisfaction. The pressure to conform to these standards can result in dangerous behaviors such as excessive exercise, restrictive eating patterns, and even the use of harmful supplements. Moreover, the algorithmic nature of social media creates an echo chamber effect, where users are continuously exposed to content that reinforces these damaging ideals.
Furthermore, the commercialization of body image through advertising compounds these negative effects. Companies exploit insecurities to sell products, creating a cycle where young people feel increasingly inadequate without certain products or appearances. This commercial pressure, combined with peer influence, creates a perfect storm that can devastate mental well-being.
To address this issue, society must implement comprehensive solutions involving media literacy education, stricter advertising regulations, and improved mental health support systems. Only through such coordinated efforts can we hope to create a healthier relationship between young people and body image.
Band 7 Sample Essay
I agree that unrealistic body standards promoted through media channels have a detrimental effect on young people’s mental health. This impact manifests in several significant ways that deserve careful consideration.
The main reason why these standards affect mental health is the constant pressure they create. Young people today spend considerable time on social media, where they encounter numerous images of “perfect” bodies. This exposure often leads to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly when these images are presented as normal or achievable standards.
Additionally, advertising companies frequently use manipulated images to promote their products, creating unrealistic expectations. The effects of media representation on body image shows that this can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Young people may feel pressured to achieve these impossible standards, resulting in unhealthy behaviors and negative self-perception.
However, there are potential solutions to this problem. Education about media literacy and the reality behind edited images could help young people develop a more critical perspective. Furthermore, promoting diverse body types in media and advertising could create a more inclusive and healthy environment.
Key Vocabulary
- unrealistic standards (n.) /ʌnrɪəˈlɪstɪk ˈstændədz/ – expectations that cannot be met
- detrimental (adj.) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- manipulated (adj.) /məˈnɪpjuleɪtɪd/ – altered or controlled skillfully
- self-perception (n.) /self pəˈsepʃn/ – the way one views oneself
- echo chamber (n.) /ˈekəʊ ˈtʃeɪmbə/ – an environment where similar beliefs are reinforced
- commercialization (n.) /kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the process of making something profitable
- algorithmic (adj.) /ˌælɡəˈrɪðmɪk/ – relating to or based on a set of rules
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. Consider also exploring related topics such as the impact of social media influencers on mental health or the role of traditional media in shaping body image perceptions.