1 minute read

Social media can be both a great blessing and hazard—it can be used to foster connection and appreciation for all sorts of beauty, yet at the same time, can be a powerful tool for bullying, self-doubt, and even worse, an eating disorder. Dove recently released an ad which brings to light the issue of how our children’s self-image is being affected by social media, in hopes that its message may help to shape a brighter future.

The ad follows Mary, a young woman who is struggling with an eating disorder. The story begins with Mary receiving a phone for her birthday, only to become immersed in dieting tip videos on social media. As the ad progresses, we witness Mary’s emotional journey—one where she overcomes her struggles with an eating disorder and finds the courage to reshape her own self-perception. The ad ends with several other young women in recovery from the negative effects of social media.

What makes this ad so poignant is that it shows how easily our body-image can be manipulated by what we see online. By its very nature, social media can serve as a double edged sword. It can bring us together but also drive us apart, depending on how we use it. However, it is those who are most vulnerable—our children—that are particularly susceptible to its influence.

On the positive side, campaigns like Dove’s are hoping to change the conversation about social media and its impact. Through raising awareness about the dangers, they are working to instill greater self-love and kindness into our children. They want to help provide them with the skills and support they need to rise above the pull of negative influences.

Ultimately, Dove’s ad campaign is more than just another marketing ploy—it is a call to action. It has the potential to revolutionize the way we view social media and its impact on our children’s self-image. A movement to provide education, encouragement, and help for those struggling with life’s various traps. This is a powerful message, and something that parents everywhere need to start talking about—not just during commercial breaks.