Social media worsens mental health through validation cycles

A new study shows that social media worsens mental health issues by promoting unrealistic beauty standards and fostering delusions. Researchers found that heavy users often struggle with disorders like narcissism and body dysmorphia. The study, titled "I tweet, therefore I am," reveals that social media amplifies distorted self-perceptions. Users create idealized online identities, which can lead to a cycle of seeking validation through likes and followers. Researchers note that social media removes reality checks, trapping vulnerable users in false beliefs. This lack of real-world feedback can worsen conditions like eating disorders and paranoia, as algorithms reinforce unhealthy thought patterns.