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Social Media and Self-Perception: The Rise of Filtered Identity

In today’s social media-driven world, filters have become more than just fun add-ons. What began as playful tools to enhance selfies has evolved into a cultural norm-one that quietly reshapes how we perceive ourselves and others. Scrolling through Instagram or Snapchat, it’s easy to believe that beauty lies in poreless skin, perfect symmetry, and glowing perfection. But at what cost?

The New Beauty Standard:

Once a creative outlet, filters now set unrealistic expectations of appearance. They blur blemishes, slim faces, brighten eyes and in doing so, subtly shift our collective idea of what beauty looks like. An unfiltered image can suddenly feel “less than” and for many, even real-life interactions become performance-driven. Think of someone applying makeup not for a party, but to match how they look in filtered selfies. This disconnect between digital and real self can create lasting damage to self-esteem.

The Psychology Behind the Screen:

1. The Looking Glass Self (Cooley, 1902)- We learn who we are based on how others respond to us. On social media, likes and comments become our mirrors. A post that garners praise? We repeat it. One thats ignored? We delete or rethink our next share. This feedback loop can slowly nudge us into becoming someone we are not just to keep the applause going. Example: A user posts a natural, unfiltered photo and receives minimal engagement. Next time, they apply a filter and gain attention-soon, filters become the norm, not the exception.

2. Self-Presentation Theory (Goffman, 1959)-We all perform differently in public and private. On social media, we are almost always on a “front stage” curating content, applying filters, and tailoring captions. Our “backstage” selves-the messy, imperfect and raw-rarely make an appearance. This split can lead to identity fragmentation. Example: An Influencer shares joyful vacation images while privately struggling with anxiety. The curated feed hides the backstage truth.

3. Social Comparison Theory (Festinger, 1954)- Its human nature to compare ourselves to others- but social media magnifies this. Seeing only the best parts of someone’s life can trigger upward comparison, leading to dissatisfaction, envy or self doubt. Example: A user sees peers getting promotions, traveling and looking flawless. They begin to feel like their own life doesn’t measure up, even if those peers are also selectively posting.

The Rise of Digital Influencers: With AI-generated influencers now amassing followers, the line between real and artificial is blurrier than ever. These “digital humans” never age, tire or falter-raising expectations not even real people can meet.

The Cost of Curated Perfection: This filter culture has real-world consequences: anxiety, low self-worth, and emotional isolation. When everyone presents a polished version of lids, it becomes harder to be vulnerable. Over time, this erodes empathy and authentic connection.

A Movement Toward Realness: Yet, there’s hope. Movements like #NoFilter and #AuthenticityMatters are encouraging users to show up as they are. People are beginning to reject perfection in favour of truth. Vulnerability is no longer a weakness-its rebellion.
Example: An Indian influencer gains followers by embracing her acne-prone skin and speaking out against colorism, sparking positive dialogue around beauty diversity.

Finding Balance and Reclaiming Identity: The challenge isn’t to abandon social media but to use it consciously. We can post and scroll while still questioning: Is this real? How does this make me feel? Am I being true to myself?

At ImPerfect Psychotherapy, we work with individuals struggling with self-image, identity conflicts, and social media-related stress. Our professional therapists can help you reconnect with your unfiltered self, understand your digital habits, and explore ways to rebuild authentic self-worth in an age that profits from perfection. When the filter fades, who are you?

By Urveez Kakalia and Krupa Abraham.

Reference:

Further Readings:

Thompson, J. (2022). Social Media & Self-Perception.

Isroilova, D. I. (2024). SELF-PERCEPTION AND SOCIAL IDENTITY OF YOUNG PEOPLE. Ethiopian International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 11(12), 478-482.

Qaili, E. (2024). Instagram Filters and Self-Perception: A Quantitative Study. KNOWLEDGE-International Journal, 64(1), 135-138.a