Date of Award
Fall 2021
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Media & Communication; College of Arts & Sciences
First Advisor
Lisa Holderman
Second Advisor
Alan Powell
Abstract
This essay explains the Uses and Gratification Theory along with the mental effects TikTok has on young adults in terms of body image. It explores the dynamics of why and how young adults continue to utilize the application despite its harmful effects it has on them. Between hateful comments on ones own videos and comparing oneself to others, there is a lot of opportunity for TikTok to decline a persons perception of their body. However, due to the concepts of the Uses and Gratification Theory, we can see the reasoning behind why these qualities are ignored when choosing what media platforms to use.
Recommended Citation
Mackey, Elizabeth, "Uses and Gratification Theory & How TikTok Affects The Body Images Of Young Adults" (2021). Capstone Showcase. 2.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2022/media_communication/2
Uses and Gratification Theory & How TikTok Affects The Body Images Of Young Adults
This essay explains the Uses and Gratification Theory along with the mental effects TikTok has on young adults in terms of body image. It explores the dynamics of why and how young adults continue to utilize the application despite its harmful effects it has on them. Between hateful comments on ones own videos and comparing oneself to others, there is a lot of opportunity for TikTok to decline a persons perception of their body. However, due to the concepts of the Uses and Gratification Theory, we can see the reasoning behind why these qualities are ignored when choosing what media platforms to use.