Investigating the relationship between social media exposure, body image dissatisfaction, and self-compassion in adolescent athlete

IntroductionSocial media exposure has become a significant influence on adolescents’ body image perceptions, particularly among adolescent athletes who face both performance-related and appearance-related pressures. This study investigated the relationship between social media exposure and body image dissatisfaction, focusing on the mediating role of self-compassion and the moderating role of fear of negative evaluation.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 449 adolescent athletes in China. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires measuring social media exposure, self-compassion, body image dissatisfaction, and fear of negative evaluation. Structural equation modeling (SmartPLS 3.3.3) was employed to test the hypothesized mediation and moderation effects.ResultsSocial media exposure was positively associated with body image dissatisfaction and negatively associated with self-compassion. Self-compassion significantly mediated the relationship between social media exposure and body image dissatisfaction. Furthermore, fear of negative evaluation significantly moderated the relationship between social media exposure and self-compassion, such that the negative association was stronger among individuals with higher levels of fear of negative evaluation.DiscussionThe findings suggest that social media exposure contributes to body image dissatisfaction among adolescent athletes both directly and indirectly through reduced self-compassion. Fear of negative evaluation further increases vulnerability to these effects. The study extends Social Comparison Theory and Self-Compassion Theory by integrating protective and vulnerability factors within a single framework and highlights the importance of interventions aimed at strengthening self-compassion and reducing excessive evaluative pressure to promote adolescent wellbeing.