Sumaiya Hossain, Wahid bin Ahsan

Department of Human-Centered Design
Userhub

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of social media reels and short videos, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, on the self-esteem and social behavior of Bangladeshi teenagers. Utilizing a qualitative case study design, we conducted in-depth interviews with 15 participants, including 13 teenagers, an educator, and a social media expert from urban areas in Bangladesh. The findings reveal that exposure to curated, idealized content on these platforms fosters social comparison, contributing to lowered self-esteem, especially among female participants. The algorithm-driven nature of short-form video platforms encourages compulsive usage, which intensifies body image concerns and leads to addictive behaviors. Parental mediation and cultural norms in Bangladesh influence these effects by either amplifying pressures or reducing the negative impact of social media. The study concludes by recommending targeted digital literacy initiatives and increased parental involvement to promote healthier social media habits among teenagers.

Keywords: social media, short-form video, TikTok, Instagram Reels, self-esteem, social behavior, adolescents, Bangladesh, mental health, social comparison, algorithmic addiction, parental mediation, family dynamics, qualitative research

Introduction

Short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have rapidly gained popularity among teenagers and young adults worldwide. These platforms deliver quick, visually stimulating content, with algorithms designed to tailor content to individual preferences, significantly boosting user engagement and screen time (Qin et al., 2022). These patterns reflect broader global trends in how Generation Z interacts with social media.

Humorous and image-based content is the most popular among teenagers globally, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram dominating digital consumption, particularly in regions like Latin America (Martínez-Estrella et al., 2023). While these platforms offer avenues for entertainment and self-expression, concerns have emerged regarding their effects on mental health and self-esteem. For example, Portuguese adolescents’ use of TikTok has been found to foster social comparison, leading to negative self-perceptions and body dissatisfaction (Dias & Duarte, 2022). Moreover, the addictive nature of algorithm-driven content often results in compulsive usage patterns, which harm psychological well-being (Qin et al., 2022).

In Bangladesh, these global trends are similarly reflected, with local teenagers increasingly adopting platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. However, the effects of social media in Bangladesh are compounded by cultural factors such as societal pressures related to body image, family dynamics, and academic success (Rony & Ahmed, 2021). Bangladeshi youth face significant pressures from global beauty standards that promote ideals of fair skin and slender figures, exacerbating self-esteem concerns (Chowdhury & bin Ahsan, 2024). These platforms provide spaces where young people frequently compare themselves to influencers and peers, amplifying feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth (Farooq et al., 2023).

Additionally, family dynamics play a critical role in shaping how social media is consumed by Bangladeshi teenagers. Parental mediation, more prevalent in Bangladeshi households compared to Western contexts, serves both as a protective factor and a source of conflict regarding media consumption (Rony & Ahmed, 2021). Understanding these cultural and familial dynamics is crucial for assessing how short-form video platforms affect the mental health and self-esteem of teenagers in Bangladesh.

This study aims to explore the psychological and social effects of short-form video consumption on Bangladeshi teenagers. By examining how platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels contribute to social comparison, addictive behaviors, and self-esteem issues, the research offers insights into the unique challenges faced by Bangladeshi youth. The findings will also contribute to ongoing discussions on digital literacy and mental health interventions tailored to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Methodology

Research Design: This qualitative case study aimed to explore the psychological and social effects of excessive use of social media reels and short videos on teenagers in Bangladesh. The research focused on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Facebook, investigating how they impact self-esteem, social behavior, and engagement with content. Additionally, the study examined the roles of parents and educators in shaping teenagers’ social media habits and explored intervention strategies to mitigate negative effects while enhancing positive outcomes.

Participants: The study involved 15 participants: 13 teenagers, one educator, and one social media expert. Participants were selected from urban areas across Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Comilla, Sylhet, and Rajshahi. This diverse sample allowed for a broad perspective on the effects of short-form videos across different social and cultural contexts.

Data Collection: Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, which allowed for both pre-prepared and spontaneous follow-up questions. The interviews explored participants’ experiences with short-form videos, focusing on their self-esteem, social interactions, and content engagement. Discussions also covered the influence of parents and educators on social media usage, providing insights into the wider social environment affecting teenagers.

Data Analysis: Using ATLAS.ti software, the interviews were transcribed and systematically coded. Thematic analysis identified key patterns, such as social comparison, addictive behavior due to algorithm-driven content, and family dynamics. These themes were organized to reflect both the negative and positive effects of short-form video consumption on mental health and social behavior. The findings were synthesized into a comprehensive report, highlighting the main challenges and opportunities presented by social media use among Bangladeshi youth.

Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to the ethical standards set by the American Psychological Association (2017). All participants were fully informed about the purpose of the research, and consent was obtained prior to the interviews. Anonymity and confidentiality were strictly upheld to protect participants’ identities and personal information.

Findings

The analysis of the interviews revealed several key effects of social media reels and short videos on the self-esteem and social behavior of Bangladeshi teenagers. These findings are grouped into major themes that emerged from the data.

Impact on Self-Esteem

A recurrent theme was the negative effect of social media reels on self-esteem. Participants described feeling inadequate due to constant comparisons with influencers and peers. One male participant shared, “Seeing people with expensive gadgets makes me feel like I need to have them too.” Similarly, a female participant noted, “I compare myself to influencers, especially when it comes to looks and fashion, and it makes me feel like I’m not good enough.”

These feelings of inadequacy were particularly strong when participants consumed content focused on material wealth or appearance, which contributed to diminished self-worth.

Influence on Social Behavior

The findings also highlighted significant changes in social behavior, particularly within the family context. Several participants reported a reduction in face-to-face communication, as family members increasingly spent time watching social media reels. One participant observed, “Family gatherings have changed. Instead of talking, everyone is on their phones watching reels.” This change was seen as weakening familial bonds.

Some participants also mentioned using reels to maintain connections with distant relatives, illustrating that the platform’s influence on social behavior varies by context.

Cognitive and Behavioral Effects

The addictive nature of social media reels was a common concern expressed by participants. Many reported struggling to limit their screen time, often watching reels for much longer than they had intended. One male participant remarked, “Sometimes I tell myself I’ll just watch for five minutes, but it turns into an hour without me realizing.”

Prolonged use of reels also led to cognitive and physical effects, including sleep disruption, anxiety, and reduced concentration. One female participant explained, “After watching reels for too long, I feel tense and irritable.” These findings suggest that excessive social media consumption can negatively impact daily routines and well-being.

Social Comparison with Peers and Influencers

The theme of social comparison emerged strongly, with participants frequently comparing themselves to influencers or peers. Male participants tended to focus on material possessions, such as gadgets, while female participants were more likely to compare their physical appearance.

For instance, one male participant stated, “Seeing people with expensive gadgets makes me feel like I need to have them too.” In contrast, a female participant commented, “I compare myself to influencers when it comes to looks and fashion, and that often makes me feel inadequate.” Despite differences in what participants compared, the outcome—lowered self-esteem—was consistent across genders.

Positive Aspects: Creativity and Connectivity

Despite the challenges posed by social media reels, participants also identified positive outcomes. Some male participants mentioned using reels to stay updated on technology and entertainment, with one noting, “I usually watch content about tech and gadgets.” Female participants were more inclined to engage with lifestyle content, such as fashion and makeup reels.

Additionally, several participants highlighted how social media reels provided opportunities for creativity and self-expression. One participant stated, “Sometimes reels motivate me to improve my skills in graphic design.” Others mentioned that these platforms helped them connect with like-minded individuals through shared hobbies and interests.

Discussion

The findings of this study demonstrate the significant impact of short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels on the mental health and self-esteem of Bangladeshi teenagers, aligning with global research trends. These platforms intensify social comparison, addictive behaviors, and have broader psychological consequences, confirming observations from studies conducted in other regions (Dias & Duarte, 2022; Farooq et al., 2023; Mu et al., 2022).

Social Comparison and Body Image

A key issue identified in this study is the role of social comparison in shaping body image concerns among Bangladeshi teenagers. Consistent with global findings, social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok contribute to body dissatisfaction by exposing users to idealized beauty standards (Farooq et al., 2023; Pedalino & Camerini, 2022). In Bangladesh, these pressures are further amplified by cultural beauty ideals, such as the preference for fair skin and slim figures (Chowdhury & bin Ahsan, 2024). This intensifies self-esteem issues among adolescent girls, who frequently compare themselves to influencers and peers, heightening feelings of inadequacy.

These findings align with studies from other cultural contexts, such as Portugal, where TikTok usage has been shown to encourage upward social comparisons and negative self-perception (Dias & Duarte, 2022). While social comparison is universal, its effects are heightened in Bangladesh due to the intersection of global beauty norms and rigid societal expectations around appearance and academic performance (Rony & Ahmed, 2021).

Addictive Behaviors and Algorithmic Influence

The addictive nature of short-form video platforms, driven by sophisticated algorithms, was another major finding of this study. These platforms are designed to maximize user engagement by curating personalized content that keeps users watching for extended periods (Qin et al., 2022). The seamless flow of videos reinforces compulsive use, contributing to a cycle of addiction (Wu, 2023; Zhu et al., 2024).

Participants in this study reported difficulty disengaging from these platforms, often spending far more time than intended watching reels. This behavior mirrors Mu et al. (2022), who observed similar patterns among Chinese adolescents. Furthermore, these addictive behaviors can serve as maladaptive coping mechanisms for stress, leading to social isolation and decreased well-being. Yan et al. (2024) further emphasize that this pattern of compulsive use is associated with cognitive impairments, such as reduced attention and concentration, which were also noted by participants in this study.

Family Dynamics and Cultural Influence

Family dynamics emerged as a critical factor in shaping social media usage among Bangladeshi teenagers. Parental mediation was found to play a dual role: both as a protective factor and as a source of tension. Some parents actively mediated their children’s social media use, setting limits and encouraging balanced consumption. However, others inadvertently contributed to negative outcomes through behaviors like parental phubbing—the act of ignoring children in favor of smartphones—which has been linked to increased feelings of neglect and social isolation among adolescents Wang & Lei (2022).

The study confirms that Bangladeshi family structures, often more hierarchical than in Western contexts, play a crucial role in moderating the effects of social media Rony & Ahmed (2021). Parental attitudes toward technology, either supportive or restrictive, heavily influence teenagers’ media habits. In households where parental mediation was more active, participants reported less compulsive social media use and more regulated screen time.

Mental Health Implications

The psychological impacts of short-form video consumption extend to heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Consistent with global research, this study found that prolonged exposure to idealized content on social media platforms leads to negative mental health outcomes (Farooq et al., 2023; Mu et al., 2022). Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to feelings of inadequacy when they perceive themselves as falling short of the standards portrayed by influencers and peers (Tiwari, 2023; Yan et al., 2024).

In the Bangladeshi context, these challenges are compounded by societal pressures around academic achievement and family expectations, which exacerbate stress and contribute to emotional distress. The combination of global media influences and local cultural dynamics creates an environment where teenagers struggle to navigate their self-identity, often leading to compromised mental health.

Positive Aspects: Creativity and Social Connectivity

While much of the focus has been on the negative effects of social media, it is important to acknowledge the positive outcomes identified in the study. Social media reels provide teenagers with opportunities for creativity, self-expression, and social connectivity. Participants reported using these platforms to explore their interests, stay updated on trends, and maintain connections with friends and relatives. For some, reels served as an outlet for creativity, helping them develop skills in areas such as design and technology.

These findings suggest that short-form video platforms are not inherently harmful, but their effects depend largely on how they are used. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels offer spaces for positive engagement, which can be encouraged through guided use and mindful consumption.

Recommendations

This study suggests several targeted interventions to mitigate the negative effects of short-form video consumption on the mental health, self-esteem, and social behavior of Bangladeshi teenagers.

1. Introduce Digital Literacy Programs: Schools should integrate digital literacy into their curricula, focusing on responsible social media use, the risks of social comparison, and managing screen time. Such programs are crucial in Bangladesh, where formal digital education is limited, to help students critically engage with social media and its psychological impacts (Vanderhoven, 2014).
2. Enhance Parental Mediation: Active parental involvement is key to regulating social media use. Workshops should equip parents with strategies to limit screen time while encouraging open discussions about digital habits. In Bangladesh, where family influence is strong, well-guided mediation can reduce social comparison pressures and compulsive behaviors (Wang & Lei, 2022).
3. Advocate for Algorithm Transparency: Policymakers should push for greater transparency in social media algorithms. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels should implement features to limit excessive use and promote mindful consumption. Regulating content delivery will help reduce compulsive behavior and its associated risks (Qin et al., 2022).
4. Develop Mental Health Campaigns: Culturally relevant mental health campaigns should address global beauty standards and local pressures, such as body image and academic expectations. These campaigns should promote body positivity, emotional resilience, and healthy self-esteem, in collaboration with educators, influencers, and mental health professionals (Chowdhury & bin Ahsan, 2024).
5. Encourage Offline Engagement: Schools and community organizations should promote offline activities, such as sports and arts, to reduce social isolation and over-reliance on social media. These outlets provide teenagers with alternative avenues for socializing and self-expression, improving their mental well-being (Mu et al., 2022).
6. Support Ongoing Research: Continued research on the long-term effects of social media is essential, particularly focusing on how it impacts mental health, gender dynamics, and family relationships in Bangladesh. Future studies should also assess the effectiveness of interventions like digital literacy and parental mediation to inform culturally sensitive solutions.

Conclusion

This study reveals the significant impact of short-form video platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram Reels, on the mental health, self-esteem, and social behavior of Bangladeshi youth. While these platforms provide opportunities for creativity and social connection, they also foster addictive behaviors and harmful social comparisons, exacerbating existing pressures related to body image and academic performance. The study’s findings align with global research on the psychological risks of algorithm-driven content, but highlight unique cultural factors in Bangladesh that intensify these challenges. The intersection of global beauty ideals with local expectations places additional strain on young people, particularly adolescents navigating familial and societal expectations. To mitigate these effects, targeted interventions are needed, including digital literacy programs, culturally sensitive parental mediation, and policy measures promoting greater transparency in social media algorithms. Further research is essential to better understand the long-term implications of social media use on youth in Bangladesh and to inform more effective, locally relevant solutions.

By addressing both global and local influences on social media behavior, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to improve adolescent mental health and well-being in the digital age.

Limitations and Future Research

This study is limited by its small sample size of 15 participants, which may not fully represent the diverse experiences of all Bangladeshi teenagers. Additionally, the study focused on urban areas, potentially overlooking differences in social media usage and its effects on youth in rural regions. The reliance on self-reported data from interviews could introduce biases, as participants may not always accurately recall or share their experiences.

Future research should expand the sample size and include participants from rural areas to capture a more comprehensive understanding of social media’s impact on Bangladeshi youth. Longitudinal studies would also be valuable to examine how the effects of social media evolve over time. Furthermore, exploring the influence of digital literacy programs and parental mediation strategies in mitigating negative outcomes would provide insights into more effective interventions.

Acknowledgments

We sincerely thank the participants for their valuable insights. We also appreciate Userhub’s support throughout the project and acknowledge our colleagues for their feedback and encouragement during the research process.

Declaration of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest. This research was conducted independently, with all analyses and conclusions reached impartially.

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