‘Legging Legs’ Trend Sparks Controversy
TikTok, a renowned platform for showcasing the latest trends, recently faced a backlash for a trending topic that promoted negative body images. The trending term “legging legs” and its related hashtag stirred up controversy, as it featured videos of young women with slender physiques flaunting their legs, often referred to as “perfect legging legs.” This trend was criticized for glorifying a specific body type, reminiscent of past obsessions like the “thigh gap.”
Platform Response and Concerns
The platform received criticism for encouraging behaviors associated with eating disorders and fostering insecurities among its users. The viral hashtag has been removed, redirecting users to resources for those battling with eating disorders. Studies have highlighted the detrimental impact of excessive social media use on body image dissatisfaction and the risk of developing eating disorders, especially among younger individuals.
Social Media’s Influence on Body Image
Research has shown a concerning link between social media exposure and increased body dissatisfaction, particularly through trends like “fitspiration” and “thigh gaps.” Social media platforms have taken steps to combat content that promotes eating disorders, offering resources and support for users struggling with body image issues. If you or someone you know is battling an eating disorder, contact the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) at 1-800-931-2237 or NationalEatingDisorders.org.