The Relationship Between Social Media, Nutrition, and Coping Mechanisms in College Students

Authors: Vivian Rodriguez, Emma Hobel, Lina Begdache

Field of Study: Health and Wellness

Program Affiliation: BSMART

Faculty Mentors: Lina Begdache

Easel: 4

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Social media influences the health of young adults in various ways, including its effects on nutritional choices and coping mechanisms during stressful situations. This study aimed to explore the relationship between social media use and negative eating behaviors, including disordered eating and unhealthy food consumption. Using an anonymous survey distributed throughout the Binghamton University campus, 805 total responses were gathered from participants aged 18 years or older. The survey included basic demographic questions and questions on social media use and nutrition. The Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to analyze data in SPSS version 28.0. The results show a positive statistical correlation between disordered eating and consumption of unhealthy sugary and fast foods. There was also a positive correlation between disordered eating behaviors, and fear of weight gain were positively correlated with being uninterested in hobbies or other activities due to social media usage. This research highlights how social media directly influences disordered eating and coping mechanisms, ultimately impacting nutritional habits.