Read the text carefully and choose the answer that best matches the meaning of each question.
Base your choice on the information, tone, and ideas expressed in the text.
Base your choice on the information, tone, and ideas expressed in the text.
The Truth Behind the Filter
Over the last decade, social media has transformed how young people see themselves. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are filled with edited photos that present a narrow beauty ideal – smooth skin, thin bodies, and perfect smiles. Most of these images are digitally changed to remove natural features like freckles, wrinkles, or body hair. Psychologists warn that this constant visual perfection creates social media pressure: the belief that everyone must look “flawless” all the time. Instead of encouraging confidence, these platforms often increase comparison and self-criticism.
Researchers have found clear connections between time spent online and body dissatisfaction. People who scroll for hours comparing themselves with influencers often feel more underweight or overweight than they really are. This negative self-image can lead to unhealthy behaviours, including extreme dieting or even eating disorders. Mental-health experts say that the biggest risk is the loss of self-acceptance – forgetting that identity is about more than appearance. Low self-confidence can quickly turn into anxiety or depression, especially among teenagers who are still forming their sense of identity.
In response, a growing number of activists, schools, and influencers are promoting campaigns for realistic standards. Hashtags such as #nofilter and #bodypositive encourage people to share natural, unedited photos and celebrate inner beauty. These movements remind users that confidence is built from actions, not angles – from kindness, balance, and health rather than comparison. Experts suggest simple steps: limit screen time, follow diverse accounts, and practise gratitude instead of judgement. Learning to accept yourself does not mean ignoring health; it means developing a healthy mindset that supports both body and mind. In the long run, self-acceptance improves mental health, strengthens confidence, and helps people influence others in positive ways.
Over the last decade, social media has transformed how young people see themselves. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are filled with edited photos that present a narrow beauty ideal – smooth skin, thin bodies, and perfect smiles. Most of these images are digitally changed to remove natural features like freckles, wrinkles, or body hair. Psychologists warn that this constant visual perfection creates social media pressure: the belief that everyone must look “flawless” all the time. Instead of encouraging confidence, these platforms often increase comparison and self-criticism.
Researchers have found clear connections between time spent online and body dissatisfaction. People who scroll for hours comparing themselves with influencers often feel more underweight or overweight than they really are. This negative self-image can lead to unhealthy behaviours, including extreme dieting or even eating disorders. Mental-health experts say that the biggest risk is the loss of self-acceptance – forgetting that identity is about more than appearance. Low self-confidence can quickly turn into anxiety or depression, especially among teenagers who are still forming their sense of identity.
In response, a growing number of activists, schools, and influencers are promoting campaigns for realistic standards. Hashtags such as #nofilter and #bodypositive encourage people to share natural, unedited photos and celebrate inner beauty. These movements remind users that confidence is built from actions, not angles – from kindness, balance, and health rather than comparison. Experts suggest simple steps: limit screen time, follow diverse accounts, and practise gratitude instead of judgement. Learning to accept yourself does not mean ignoring health; it means developing a healthy mindset that supports both body and mind. In the long run, self-acceptance improves mental health, strengthens confidence, and helps people influence others in positive ways.
1. What makes the “beauty ideal” described in the article narrow?
2. According to researchers, why do long hours online change self-perception?
3. What does the phrase “confidence is built from actions, not angles” mean?
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