Social Media and Eating Disorders among University Students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County-Kenya

Social Media and Eating Disorders among University Students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County-Kenya

Dr. Obino Mulenga¹, Dr. Pius Mausa² and Daniel Nyangoya³

¹Department of Counseling Psychology-The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

² Department of Counseling Psychology- Tangaza University

³ PhD Candidate-Counseling Psychology- The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.90300040

Received: 21 February 2025; Accepted: 26 February 2025; Published: 27 March 2025

ABSTRACT

With the increase in technology and the proliferation of social media applications in the rise globally with a significant number of that population comprising of university students. Eating habits have also changed among university students, and while researchers have explored many causes of eating disorders, the correlation between social media use and eating disorders has been scantly addressed. This study explored the relationship between social media usage and eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-county, Nairobi, Kenya. With the rise of social media usage, students increasingly turn to these platforms for academic, social, entertainment and information purposes, often replacing traditional face-to-face interactions. The study aimed to examine three key aspects of social media usage: frequency, forms, and functions, and how they relate to eating disorders. The objectives were to determine the relationship between the frequency of social media use, the specific platforms used, and their functions, alongside proposing strategies to mitigate the social media usage among university students to minimize eating disorders. Grounded in Social Comparison Theory and Uses and Gratification Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods approach through a sequential explanatory research design. This study targeted 14,081 university students, with a sample size of 282. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed descriptively and inferentially using SPSS version 26, while qualitative data was collected using interview guides and analyzed thematically. Results obtained for Not at all showed a weak, non-significant negative correlation (-.123, p = .059), Less than 1 Hour gave negative correlation (-.194, p = .003,1 to 3 Hours showed a weak positive and significant correlation (.020, p = .767), 3 to 5 Hours gave a significant positive correlation (.230, p = .000) and More than 5 Hours gave a moderate positive correlation (.457, p < .001). All the four platforms showed a significant correlation-Twitter(X) (r=.578, p=.000), Facebook (r=.518, p=.000), Instagram (r=.485, p=.000) and TikTok (r=.428, p=.000). The functions also revealed positive associations- social use (p=.559, p<.001), academic use (p=.652, p<.001), informative use (p=.707, p<.001) and entertainment use (p=.707, p<.001). The students were resilient with a mean score ranging from 2.78 to 3.10 out of the possible 5.00. While some students actively sought ways to cope with social media challenges others struggled with adaptability. The findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions to enhance resilience and promote healthy social media habits.

Key Words: Social Media, Eating disorders and Students

INTRODUCTION

Social media has become an integral part of daily life for university students, influencing various aspects of their behaviour. In recent years, platforms like Facebook, Twitter (X) Instagram and TikTok have provided a space where users are exposed to a wide array of content related to food, diet trends, and body image. These platforms are often saturated with images of idealized bodies and specific eating practices, which can shape how individuals perceive food and their own bodies. For university students, who are often at a developmental stage where body image concerns are heightened, social media’s influence on eating behaviours can be particularly impactful.

In Langata Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya, university students are no exception to these global trends. As more students gain access to smartphones and the internet, social media has become a prominent tool for seeking health information, exploring diet trends, and even engaging in challenges related to fitness and body transformation. While some students may adopt healthier eating habits inspired by positive content, others may be negatively influenced by unrealistic beauty standards and fad diets that can promote disordered eating behaviours. This creates a complex dynamic between social media use and its impact on students’ nutritional choices, physical health, and overall well-being.

Research on this topic is crucial for understanding the specific ways in which social media influences eating habits leading to eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County. Given the diversity of content available online and the individual differences in how students engage with social media, it is important to explore both the potential risks and benefits. By studying this relationship, we can better inform interventions and public health strategies aimed at promoting healthy eating habits and mitigating the risks of disordered eating within this population.

Despite increased awareness and advances in treatment, the prevalence of eating disorders continues to rise globally. According to recent estimates, the lifetime prevalence of eating disorders is 8.4% for women and 2.2% for men, although these figures vary significantly across different populations and contexts (Galmiche et al., 2019). Eating disorders are recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) as “a persistent disturbance of eating or eating related behaviours that results in an altered consumption or absorption of food and that significantly impairs physical health or psychosocial functioning” (APA, 2022, Dell’Osso et al., 2016). Although different eating disorders can be distinguished by distinct sets of behaviours, they all carry the potential for significant morbidity and mortality.

Historically, descriptions of eating disorders date back to the Middle Ages, where self-starvation, termed anorexia mirabilis, was seen as a sign of spiritual purity or holiness (Bynum, 1988; EspiForcen, 2013; Dell’Osso et al., 2016). However, it was not until the mid to late 19th century that food refusal began to be viewed as a psychological issue, associated with a compulsive drive for thinness (Dell’Osso et al., 2016). Contemporary psychological research has identified various personality factors, such as negative emotionality and perfectionism, as contributing to the development of eating disorders (Wade et al., 2016). Additionally, changing social factors, including identity and role transitions during emerging adulthood, social pressures to become thin, and family communication about dieting, play significant roles in the development of eating disorders, particularly among younger adults (Claydon et al., 2020; Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997; Potterton et al., 2020).

Globally, the increasing prevalence of eating disorders is alarming. In Western countries, where thinness is often idealized, the prevalence of eating disorders is particularly high. Research from North America and Europe consistently reports higher rates of these disorders, with societal pressure to maintain a slim figure being a significant contributing factor (Smink, van Hoeken, & Hoek, 2012). Current statistics show that approximately 3.5 billion people globally are engaged in online networking, with a significant proportion being young adults. Research has consistently shown that university students exhibit high levels of social media usage (Parr, 2015;). Concurrently, there is substantial evidence indicating the prevalence of eating disorders among university students worldwide (Wahed & Hassan, 2017; Peltzer et al., 2013; Othieno et al., 2014).

In a comprehensive review, Hoek (2016) found that up to 4% of women in Western countries are affected by eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Additionally, Griffiths et al. (2018) reported a rise in eating disorder symptoms among men in Australia and the United Kingdom, indicating that these disorders are not confined to women. Meanwhile, in non-Western countries such as those in Asia and the Middle East, the rising prevalence of eating disorders suggests a global spread of Western beauty ideals, exacerbated by cultural shifts and increasing exposure to Western media (Tong et al., 2014). A study by Pike et al. (2014) revealed that in China, Japan, and South Korea, disordered eating behaviours are increasing, particularly among young women, due to heightened exposure to Western body ideals through social media and television. Social media platforms, in particular, have played a major role in exporting these ideals, which emphasize unrealistic standards of beauty and body shape.

On the African continent, countries such as Ghana and South Africa have traditionally emphasized fuller body types as ideal, which has historically provided some protection against eating disorders. However, globalization and increased exposure to Western media are contributing to a shift in beauty standards, leading to rising incidences of eating disorders in these regions (Pike & Dunne, 2015, Mensah & Ofori, 2019, Mensah & Amankwah, 2020, Nkosi & Mkhize, 2020 and Faber, Schoenfeld & Tiggemann, 2019). The influence of Western ideals of thinness is increasingly affecting younger generations, especially in urbanized areas.

Regionally, in East Africa, countries like Uganda and Tanzania are also witnessing the emergence of eating disorders, particularly among urban populations. These cases are attributed to a mix of Western media influences, changing beauty standards, and the pressures of rapid urbanization (Nsubuga & Kizito, 2020 and Mwakalobo & Nyoni, 2019). Though the prevalence remains lower compared to Western nations, the trend is concerning, with adolescents and young adults most affected.

In Kenya, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi, the influence of Western media and social media platforms has also contributed to a rise in eating disorders. Research by Muthoni, Mwiti, and Nyaga (2020) and Mwangi, Wanjiru, and Njenga (2020) highlighted the growing prominence of disordered eating behaviours, especially among young people in Nairobi. Gichuhi and Kariuki (2019) found that eating disorders in Kenya are often underreported but are rising steadily, particularly among adolescents and young adults in urban centers. Furthermore, Nyaga and Gathungu (2018) identified that Western media’s portrayal of slim, attractive body types has impacted Kenyan youth, who increasingly associate thinness with success and desirability. The influx of Western beauty ideals, which prioritize slimness, has taken root in the Kenyan urban context, where modernity and media consumption converge. Young adults, particularly university students, are increasingly exposed to images and content that promote unrealistic body standards. This has resulted in a noticeable shift in attitudes towards body image and eating behaviours, with some individuals adopting unhealthy habits such as extreme dieting and excessive exercising in pursuit of these ideals. The combination of rapid urbanization, global media exposure, and changing cultural norms in Nairobi has created a fertile ground for the spread of eating disorders in the region.

Social media has become a significant factor in the formation of eating habits leading to the development of eating disorders. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok propagate idealized images of thinness, which can negatively affect body image and self-esteem, especially among adolescents and young adults (Perloff, 2014). The mechanisms through which social media influences eating disorders include increased social comparison, body dissatisfaction, and the internalization of unrealistic beauty standards (Fardouly et al., 2015). Additionally, harmful content, such as pro-anorexia and pro-bulimia groups, can exacerbate disordered eating behaviours (Arcelus et al., 2017).

Objectives of the Study

1. To determine the influence of frequency of social media use and eating disorders among university students in Langata sub-county, Nairobi county-Kenya.
2. To establish types of social media that influence eating disorders among university students in Langata sub-county, Nairobi county-Kenya.

iii. To establish the relationship between functions of social media use and eating dis orders among university students in Langata sub-county, Nairobi county-Kenya.

1. To assess the strategies on social media use that can be put in place towards mitigating of eating habits leading to eating disorders among university students in Langata sub-county, Nairobi county-Kenya.

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study employed a mixed method approach particularly sequential explanatory research design. Sequential explanatory research design is a type of mixed-methods approach that involves the systematic integration of quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis in two distinct phases. Initially, the researcher gathered and analyzed quantitative data, which provided a broad, numerical overview of the research problem (QUAN). This was followed by a qualitative phase, where additional data was collected and analyzed to explain and elaborate on the quantitative findings (QUAL). The primary purpose of this design was to use qualitative data to provide insights and deeper understanding of the patterns or results that emerged from the quantitative phase (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018).

The sequential explanatory design was used to address research questions that required both generalization and detailed contextual understanding. For instance, researchers might first conduct a large-scale survey to identify trends or relationships within a population. Based on the survey results, they might then conduct interviews or focus groups to explore participants’ experiences, perspectives, and motivations in greater depth (Ivankova, Creswell, & Stick, 2006). This two-phase approach allowed the researcher to not only quantify variables but also to understand the underlying reasons behind the observed statistical trends, thus provided a more comprehensive view of the research problem.

The rationale for choosing a sequential explanatory research design for this study lies in its ability to enhance the interpretation and validity of the research findings. Quantitative data identified significant patterns or correlations using measurable numerical facts. Through explanatory purposes of qualitative data collected, the researcher gave a richer, more nuanced understanding of the results, thereby increasing the robustness and credibility of the conclusions. This design is particularly useful in studies where the research questions are complex and multifaceted, requiring both breadth and depth of understanding to fully address them.

Figure 1 Sequential Explanatory Research Design Flow Diagram (Creswell & Plano-Clark- 2011)

Phase 1 (QUAN)-Questionnaires: Descriptive analysis, Phase 2 (QUAL)-Interviews: Thematic         inferential analysis/Correlation analysis (SPSS-26) analysis

Location of the Study

The study area for this research was Langata Sub-County, located in Nairobi County, Kenya, which is a vibrant and dynamic region characterized by a diverse population and a significant number of educational institutions. Langata Sub-County is home to several universities and colleges, making it an ideal location for studying the behaviours and challenges faced by university students. The area’s demographic diversity, including a mix of local and international students, provided a rich context for exploring how various social factors, such as social media use, influenced student well-being.

In recent years, social media has become an integral part of daily life for university students in Langata Sub-County. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok are widely used for academic, socialization, entertainment and informativeness. However, the pervasive nature of social media has also raised concerns about its impact on mental health, particularly regarding body image and eating behaviours. Previous studies have indicated a strong correlation between social media exposure and the development of eating disorders, as students often compare themselves to the idealized images they see online (Fardouly, Diedrichs, Vartanian, & Halliwell, 2015).

Langata Sub-County’s unique blend of urban and educational environments maked it an important area for this research. The prevalence of social media among university students in this region offered a valuable opportunity to examine how these digital platforms contributed to the risk of eating disorders. By focusing on this specific geographical area, the study aimed to provide insights that are both locally relevant and potentially applicable to similar urban settings in Kenya and beyond. Understanding the relationship between social media use and eating disorders in this context can helped develop targeted interventions and support systems for university students who might be vulnerable to these issues.

The Target Population

The target population for this study was 14,081 students (Ministry of Education, Kenya. (2024). studying in the six universities chosen through stratified sampling out of the nine universities within Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya admitted in diploma, degree and masters aged above 18 years. This demographic was particularly relevant given their high engagement with social media platforms and their susceptibility to eating disorders, as indicated by global and regional trends. University students often experience significant social and academic pressures, which can be exacerbated by the pervasive influence of social media (Perloff, 2014). The choice of this population was driven by the need to understand how social media use affects their eating behaviours.

Focusing on university students in Langata Sub-County allowed for an examination of the interplay between social media use and eating disorders within a localized context. This population was characterized by high smartphone ownership and active participation in social networking, making them an ideal group for studying the impact of digital media (Statista, 2023). Furthermore, studying this specific group helped to address the gap in literature regarding the influence of social media on eating disorders in Kenya, providing data that can inform local university policies and intervention programs aimed at promoting healthier social media use and mitigating the risk of eating disorders among students (Pike & Dunne, 2015).

Sample Size and Sampling Procedures

According to Mugenda and Mugenda (2003), determining the appropriate sample size is crucial for ensuring the validity and reliability of study findings. The sample size for a study can be determined using specific guidelines that balance the need for statistical power with the practical constraints of research. According to Mugenda and Mugenda (2003), the formula provides a robust method for determining an adequate sample size, ensuring that the results are both statistically significant and generalizable to the broader population.

The margin of error in social science research generally ranges from 3% to 7% and was closely related to sample size. This study used Slovin’s (1977) formula to calculate the sample size for a population of 14,081 students from the stratified sampled universities. This formula is especially useful for large populations and provides a method for determining an appropriate sample size based on desired confidence level and margin of error. Slovin’s formula is given as;

 n =           N/1+N.e²

n = Sample size

N= Population size (14,081)

e = Margin of error (5.9%, or 0.059 as a decimal)

n=        14,081/1+N.e²      14,081/1+14,081(0.059)²   14,081/1+14,081(0.003481)    14,081/1+49.014          14,081/50.014

n=282

Equal distribution across the six universities, each university will contribute;

282/6    = 47 students.

Using stratified sampling the 47students were distributed equally among first, second, third and fourth years. It is particularly useful when researchers want to ensure that important subgroups are adequately represented, thereby improving the generaliz ability of the findings (Creswell & Creswell, 2017; Etikan & Bala, 2017).

47/4    = 12 students representing each year of studies.

Sampling Procedure

A sampling procedure is a systematic method used to select a subset of individuals from a larger population to represent the whole. This process is essential in research to make inferences about the population without needing to survey every individual, which is often impractical due to time, cost, and logistical constraints. Sampling helps to ensure that the data collected is manageable and that the study results are generalizable to the larger population. The key steps in a sampling procedure included defining the population, determining the sample size, selecting the sampling method, implementing the sampling method, and collecting the data.

A well-defined sampling procedure is crucial for any study. The first step was to define the population clearly. In this case, the population included all university students enrolled in universities located in Langata Subcounty. This ensured that the study targeted the specific group of interest and provided relevant insights. There are nine universities in Langata Subcounty, three are public while six are private universities. The study was conducted in all the three public universities and three private universities randomly sampled.

Table 2 Targeted Universities in Langata Subcounty

Source: Ministry of Education, Kenya. (2024). University student population records for Langata Sub-County.

The rationale for choosing 3 public universities and 3 private universities out of the 6 available private universities in Langata Subcounty, Nairobi, Kenya, using a stratified sampling method, was to ensure a balanced representation of different institutional types. Stratified sampling divided the population into distinct subgroups, in this case, public and private universities, and selected samples from each subgroup proportionally. By selecting an equal number of public and private universities, the study captured a diverse range of student experiences, social environments, and institutional influences on social media use and eating disorders. This approach enhanced the study’s external validity and ensured that the findings are more generalizable across the different types of universities (Teddlie & Yu, 2007). Additionally, it allowed for comparisons between public and private institutions, providing insights into how these different settings may impact the phenomena under study.

Table 3 Sampled Universities

Source: Ministry of Education, Kenya. (2024). University student population records for Langata Sub-County.

Sample Matrix

Table 4 Sample Matrix

Research Instruments

Using questionnaires in this study offered a practical and efficient method for collecting data from a large and diverse sample. Questionnaires are advantageous due to their ability to standardize questions, ensuring that each participant receives the same set of items, which enhances the reliability and comparability of the data (Creswell & Creswell, 2017). For instance, the Social Networking Usage Scale (SNUS), which includes items on the forms (Face book, Twitter (X), Instagram and Tiktok) frequency and functions (education, socialization, entertainment and informativeness, allowed the researcher to quantify usage patterns effectively. Additionally, using the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) enabled the assessment of various eating disorder behaviours and attitudes, such as dietary restraint, binge eating, and purging (Fairburn & Beglin, 1994). These standardized scales enhanced the study’s ability to detect correlations and patterns in the data, this provided a robust framework for analyzing the relationship between social media use and eating disorders.

Moreover, the study incorporated the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRC), which measured individuals’ ability to cope with stress in adaptive ways, added depth to the study’s analysis by exploring potential mediators or moderators of the relationship between social media use and eating disorders (Sinclair & Wallston, 2004). This scale included items like, “I usually manage to keep my cool, even when I’m under a lot of pressure,” allowed for the assessment of resilience levels among participants. The use of these well-established scales did not only enhance the validity of the findings but also facilitated comparisons with existing research, contributing to the broader understanding of the impact of social media on mental health and eating behaviours. Together, these instruments provided a comprehensive toolset for capturing the multifaceted dynamics of the study’s focus, this ensured that the data collected is both thorough and insightful.

RESULTS

The research sought to establish the relationship between social media use and eating disorders among university students in terms of which social platforms had the highest mean of usage.

The mean values suggested that TikTok (M = 3.10, SD = 1.213) and Instagram (M = 3.03, SD = 1.201) were the most frequently used platforms, followed by Twitter (M = 2.94, SD = 1.153) and Facebook (M = 2.91, SD = 1.153). The standard deviations, which were relatively similar across platforms, suggested a moderate level of variation in social media use among respondents. These findings implied that while all four platforms are used to some extent, TikTok and Instagram were more popular, due to their highly visual and interactive nature, which appeals students. Facebook and Twitter, although still relevant, experienced slightly lower engagement among the students. This was supported by one respondent who upon being asked to say which is the preferred social media:

I find myself using TikTok and Instagram more often than Facebook or Twitter. TikTok’s short, engaging videos and Instagram’s visually appealing posts make them more interesting and entertaining. I can easily scroll through funny, educational, or trending content, which keeps me engaged for longer periods. Most of my friends also prefer these platforms because they allow for quick interactions, like sharing reels or commenting on stories. On the other hand, Facebook feels a bit outdated, and I mostly use it for group discussions or checking announcements. Twitter is great for news and discussions, but it doesn’t have the same fun, interactive vibe as TikTok and Instagram. So, it makes sense that the findings show higher usage of these visual platforms among students (Respondent 3).

What is the influence of the frequency of social media use on eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya?

The first research question focused on assessing how often students use social media and its correlation with eating disorder prevalence among students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County-Kenya. A correlation was done between the social media and the eating attitudes. The results a presented in table 2.

Table 2: Correlation Between Frequency and eating attitudes

The findings of the Spearman correlation analysis indicated a weak negative correlation between zero social media use and eating behaviours, with a correlation coefficient of -.123 and a significance level of .059 (p > .05). This suggested that although there was a slight inverse relationship, it was not statistically significant at the conventional .05 level. This outcome had implications when considered alongside the reviewed literature, which largely supported the notion that avoiding social media was associated with reduced body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviours.

When interpreting the current Spearman correlation results (-.123, p = .059) in light of these findings, it was important to acknowledge that while the negative relationship between zero social media use and eating behaviours is in line with previous findings, the lack of statistical significance suggested that other confounding factors were at play. The absence of a strong correlation did not necessarily negate the impact of social media on eating behaviours but instead highlighted the complexity of this relationship. It is possible that factors such as individual susceptibility, offline influences, and pre-existing mental health conditions moderate this association.

While the findings of the reviewed literature provided compelling evidence supporting the protective effects of zero social media use against body dissatisfaction and disordered eating, the weak and non-significant Spearman correlation coefficient in this study suggested that additional research is needed. Future studies should consider longitudinal designs and larger sample sizes to better understand the underlying mechanisms linking social media use to eating behaviours.

The Spearman correlation analysis for social media use limited to less than one hour per day and eating behaviours yielded a correlation coefficient of -.194 with a significance level of .003 (p < .05). This result indicated a statistically significant negative correlation, suggesting that reduced social media exposure was associated with lower levels of disordered eating behaviours among university students. This finding aligned with previous studies that had consistently reported the protective effects of restricted social media usage.

Like the findings of Smith and Johnson (2019) in Toronto corroborated this pattern, that showed that students who restricted their social media usage reported significantly lower rates of eating disorder symptoms. Likewise, Morales and Pérez (2020) conducted a cross-sectional study in San José and utilized path analysis to determine that students with less than one hour of daily social media use exhibited lower disordered eating behaviour levels. López and Garcia (2019) in Lima further validated these findings through structural equation modeling, which confirmed that reduced social media usage correlates with fewer instances of disordered eating behaviours.

Some of the students interviewed had these to say on restricted use of social media,

I made a conscious decision to limit my social media use to less than an hour per day, and it has made a huge difference in how I feel about myself. Before, I would spend hours scrolling through fitness and beauty pages, constantly comparing my body to unrealistic standards. Now, with less exposure to those images, I feel more comfortable in my own skin. I focus more on my studies and hobbies, and I’ve noticed that I no longer obsess over food or feel pressured to follow extreme diet trends (Respondent 5).

Cutting down my social media time to under an hour each day has helped me develop a healthier relationship with food and my body. I used to be trapped in a cycle of comparison, feeling like I had to look a certain way to be accepted. But with less time online, I’ve realized that most of what I saw wasn’t even real—just edited pictures and highlight reels. Now, I’m more mindful of what I consume online, and I feel less anxious about my appearance and eating habits (Respondent 7).

At first, I didn’t think limiting social media would make a big difference, but after sticking to less than an hour a day, I see a major change in my mental and physical well-being. I no longer waste time comparing myself to influencers, and I’ve stopped feeling guilty about what I eat. Instead of scrolling endlessly, I spend more time with friends, reading, and exercising for fun rather than appearance. My self-esteem has improved, and I feel more in control of my life (Respondent 13).

The responses from the respondents confirm the results of the Spearman correlation analysis (r=-.194, p = .003) further validated the conclusions drawn from these global studies. The significant negative correlation suggested that limiting social media use is associated with healthier eating. Unlike the previous analysis of zero social media use, which did not yield a statistically significant relationship, the current findings emphasized the importance of moderation rather than complete abstinence.

The Spearman correlation analysis reported a weak positive correlation (r = .020, p = .767, N = 234) between moderate social media usage and disordered eating behaviours. Although this correlation was not statistically significant, existing literature suggested that moderate social media use may be associated with negative body image perceptions and disordered eating patterns.

The respondents who use social media for 1 hour to 3 hours had this to say about their experiences.

I spend about two hours on social media every day, mostly browsing through fashion and fitness pages. At first, I thought it was just entertainment, but I started noticing that I constantly compared myself to influencers and models. I began feeling dissatisfied with my body and started skipping meals to look thinner. I didn’t realize how much social media was affecting my eating habits until I took a break and felt less pressure to change my appearance (Respondent 1).

“Scrolling through social media for a few hours a day has become part of my routine, but I’ve noticed that it sometimes makes me feel insecure. Seeing people post about their ‘perfect’ diets and gym routines makes me feel guilty about what I eat. Even though I know most of it is filtered and staged, I still find myself questioning my body and considering extreme diets just to fit into what seems like the ‘ideal’ image (Respondent 7).

I use social media for about three hours a day, mostly chatting with friends and following health and fitness pages. While it helps me stay connected, I can’t deny that it has influenced the way I see my body. I’ve caught myself avoiding certain foods just because I saw a post labeling them as ‘bad’ or ‘unhealthy.’ Sometimes, I wish I could go back to a time when I didn’t feel so much pressure to eat ‘clean’ all the time (Respondent 3).

Although the Spearman correlation analysis in the present study indicated only a weak positive relationship between moderate social media use and eating behaviours, these findings aligned with previous research demonstrating potential risks associated with social media exposure. The lack of statistical significance (p = .767) suggested that other factors may contribute to variations in eating behaviours beyond social media use alone.

The relationship between prolonged social media use (3 to 5 hours daily) in this study gave a spearman correlation coefficient of (r= .230** p = .000) suggested a moderate positive relationship between increased social media exposure and disordered eating behaviours. This implies that as social media usage rises within the 3 to 5-hour range, body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating patterns also increase.

Studies conducted in Africa further reinforce these findings. Mensah and Ofori (2019) examined 450 university students in Accra, Ghana, using a cross-sectional design. Their logistic regression analysis indicated that students spending 3 to 5 hours on social media daily had significantly elevated levels of body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating behaviours. Likewise, a study in Tunisia by Ben Amor and Khalil (2020) among 400 university students in Tunis revealed a similar positive correlation. Regression analysis demonstrated that prolonged social media use significantly contributed to increased levels of disordered eating behaviours and negative body image perceptions. These findings align with research by Mukamana and Uwizeye (2019) in Kigali, Rwanda, which employed a mixed-methods approach. Their path analysis confirmed that students who engaged in social media use for 3 to 5 hours per day reported more pronounced eating disorder symptoms, emphasizing the detrimental effects of extended social media exposure.

A Kenyan study by Mwangi et al. (2021) further supports these observations. Using a cross-sectional design among 500 university students in Langata, Nairobi, the researchers found that students spending 3 to 5 hours on social media exhibited significantly higher levels of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviours. Multiple regression analysis reinforced the conclusion that prolonged social media exposure amplifies negative body image influences, ultimately heightening the risk of eating disorders.

The respondents also said this about 3 to 5 hours use of social media,

Spending around four hours on social media every day has definitely affected how I see myself. I follow a lot of fitness and lifestyle influencers, and even though I know their posts are edited and curated, I still feel pressured to look a certain way. I’ve caught myself skipping meals or trying extreme diets just because I feel like I don’t measure up. The more time I spend online, the more I compare myself, and it’s exhausting trying to meet unrealistic beauty standards (Respondent 10).

I never realized how much social media was influencing my eating habits until I started tracking my screen time. I spend close to five hours a day scrolling through Instagram and TikTok, and most of the content I see revolves around dieting, weight loss, and ‘perfect’ body types. Over time, I started feeling guilty about eating certain foods and became overly conscious of my appearance. It’s frustrating because I know I shouldn’t let social media dictate how I feel about myself, but it’s hard to ignore the constant pressure (Respondent 12).

This prolonged social media use (3 to 5 hours daily) is detrimental to disordered eating behaviours as confirmed in this study by the respondents and with a positive correlation (r= .230**) confirmed the role of social media as a risk factor for eating disorders.

The Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ = 0.457, p < 0.001) suggested a moderate positive correlation between social media use exceeding five hours daily and disordered eating behaviours among university students. This finding aligned with previous research indicating that prolonged social media exposure is associated with increased body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating patterns (Smith et al., 2020; Nagy & Kocsis, 2019; Mwangi et al., 2021).

Smith et al. (2020) found that students who engaged with social media for more than five hours daily exhibited significantly higher levels of body dissatisfaction and eating disorder symptoms. Similarly, Nkosi and Mkhize (2020) reported that extensive social media use correlated with disordered eating behaviours among university students in South Africa. The moderate Spearman correlation in the current study further supported the notion that social media exposure contributed to negative self-perceptions and maladaptive eating patterns.

One potential explanation for this correlation was the influence of social comparison and exposure to idealized body images on social media platforms (El-Sayed & Hassan, 2020). Many users engaged with curated content that promoted unrealistic beauty standards, leading to dissatisfaction with their own bodies and, consequently, maladaptive eating behaviours. In Uganda, Nsubuga and Kizito (2020) found that students who spent excessive time on social media reported heightened body dissatisfaction and eating disorder symptoms, reinforcing the psychological impact of prolonged exposure to idealized portrayals of body image.

One of the respondents had this to say about excessive use of social media,

As a student I often find myself spending over five hours daily on social media, whether for entertainment, academic purposes, or social interactions. While it keeps me connected and informed, I can’t ignore the impact it has on my self-perception and eating habits. Constant exposure to influencers, fitness models, and edited images sets unrealistic beauty standards that make me question my own body. The pressure to conform to these ideals can lead to unhealthy eating patterns, from restrictive dieting to binge eating, as I strive to fit the mold presented online. I have noticed how prolonged social media use fuels feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even guilt about my eating habits, making it clear that excessive screen time plays a significant role in shaping my relationship with food and body image (Respondent 9).

This response is in line with the Spearman correlation coefficient in this study (r=0.457) indicated a moderate positive relationship between excessive social media use and disordered eating behaviours, corroborating prior studies. The findings emphasized the need for awareness campaigns, mental health interventions, and strategies to limit social media consumption among university students. Addressing these issues contributed to improved mental health outcomes and healthier eating behaviours.

What types of social media platforms influence eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya?

The second research question focused on specific social media platforms and their potential role in influencing eating behaviours. The findings are presented in the table below.

Table 3: Influence of Specific Social Media Platforms

The correlation analysis using Spearman’s rho indicated significant positive relationships between social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok) and eating attitudes. The strongest correlation was observed between Twitter and eating attitudes (r = .578, p = .000), followed closely by Facebook (r = .518, p = .000) and Instagram (r = .485, p = .000). TikTok shows the weakest, though still significant, correlation (r = .428, p = .000). These findings suggested that increased engagement with these platforms is associated with more problematic eating attitudes.

What is the relationship between the functions of social media use and eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya?

This research question explored the relationship between the functions of social media and eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Social media plays a significant role in shaping body image perceptions, influencing dietary behaviours, and exposing individuals to content that may contribute to disordered eating patterns. Given the increasing reliance on social media for socializing, academic functions, entertainment, and information, it was crucial to assess how different functions of social media use impact eating disorder tendencies among university students. To achieve this, spearman analysis was employed to determine the extent to which various social media functions predict eating disorder behaviours. The findings are presented in the table below.

Table 4: Correlations Between Social Media Functions and Eating Attitudes

The Spearman’s rho correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between different functions of social media (social, academic, informative, and entertainment) and eating attitudes. The highest correlation was observed between informative and entertainment use of social media and eating attitudes (r = .707, p = .000), indicating that individuals who engaged with social media for informational and entertainment purposes were more likely to have problematic eating attitudes. Academic use of social media also showed a strong correlation with eating attitudes (r = .652, p = .000), suggesting that exposure to academic content on these platforms still contributed to body image concerns and eating behaviours. These findings highlighted the multifaceted role of social media in influencing individuals’ perceptions of body image and food consumption patterns.

What strategies on social media use can be put in place towards mitigating the eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya?

The fourth objective sought to identify from the participants of the research the possible interventions or policies to reduce the negative impact of social media on eating behaviours among the university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Before the qualitative data was presented in themes, a quantitative analysis was done to see the resilience of the respondents when faced with the challenges of social media.

Table 19 Descriptive Statistics

The descriptive statistics on resilience among the respondents indicated varying levels of adaptive coping strategies in dealing with difficult situations. The mean scores range from 2.78 to 3.10, suggested moderate resilience levels. The lowest mean score (M = 2.78, SD = 1.263) was observed in respondents seeking creative ways to alter difficult situations, implying that while some individuals adopted innovative problem-solving approaches, others struggled with adaptability. The statement “Regardless of what my reaction to it” had a slightly higher mean (M = 2.83, SD = 1.356), indicating that reactions to challenges varied significantly among respondents.

The belief in personal growth through adversity had a mean of 2.91 (SD = 1.262), suggesting that many respondents recognized the potential for growth when faced with hardships. However, the highest mean score was associated with actively seeking ways to replace losses (M = 3.10, SD = 1.224), indicating that respondents were relatively more inclined to find substitutes or compensatory strategies for their setbacks. The standard deviations across all items suggested a wide variability in resilience levels, highlighting that while some students demonstrated strong coping mechanisms, others needed additional support in developing resilience skills.

These are some of the themes from the respondents concerning the strategies on social media use towards reducing eating disorders.

Educational Campaigns:

One of the respondents had this to say about educational campaigns,

Universities should organize awareness campaigns about the negative effects of social media on body image. Hosting workshops, seminars, and discussions led by experts can educate students on how to critically evaluate social media content and avoid harmful dieting trends (Respondent 2).

Another respondent said,

Introducing social media literacy programs can help students understand the unrealistic beauty standards promoted online. Teaching students how to recognize edited images, influencer marketing tactics, and diet culture can reduce the negative impact social media has on their self-esteem and eating habits (Respondent 5).

Support Networks:

Some of the respondents said,

“Universities can address the impact of social media on students’ eating disorders by providing mental health support services. Offering counseling and therapy sessions focused on body image issues and eating disorders can help students develop healthier relationships with food and social media (Respondent 1).

The fourth respondent said,

Universities should create safe spaces where students can openly discuss body image concerns without judgment. Support groups led by mental health professionals or peer mentors can provide students with a sense of community and encourage healthy eating behaviours (Respondent 4).

The tenth respondent had this to say,

Universities can work with healthcare professionals to offer screenings for eating disorders and provide early interventions. By identifying students who may be struggling and offering them the necessary support, institutions can help prevent the escalation of eating disorders influenced by social media (Respondent 10).

Engaging Influencers:

Collaboration with social media influencers who promote body positivity and healthy eating habits can be beneficial. Universities can invite these influencers for talks or online sessions to counteract harmful social media trends and encourage students to follow balanced lifestyles. (Respondent 8)

Interactive Campaigns:

Universities should integrate discussions about social media’s influence on mental health into their curriculum. Courses or guest lectures on media psychology, self-esteem, and digital well-being can help students become more aware of how social media affects their thoughts and behaviours. (Respondent 6)

Collaborations with Universities:

Universities should have policies in place to address cyberbullying and body shaming, which often contribute to eating disorders. Creating strict guidelines against harmful online behaviour and providing support for affected students can make a significant difference. (Respondent 6)

Promoting Physical Activity:

Encouraging students to take breaks from social media through digital detox initiatives can be helpful. Universities can promote offline activities, such as sports, creative arts, and wellness programs, to help students reduce their screen time and focus on healthier habits. (Respondent 8)

SUMMARY

Objective one: The first research question aimed to assess the frequency of social media use among university students and its correlation with eating disorder prevalence. The findings revealed varying relationships between social media usage duration and disordered eating behaviours.

1. Not at all: A weak, non-significant negative correlation (-.123, p = .059) was observed, suggesting that while abstaining from social media may be linked to healthier eating behaviours, the association was not statistically significant.
2. Less than 1 Hour: A significant negative correlation (-.194, p = .003) indicated that limited social media use was associated with lower levels of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating.
3. 1 to 3 Hours: A weak positive and significant correlation (.020, p = .767) suggested clear link between moderate social media use and eating behaviours.
4. 3 to 5 Hours: A significant positive correlation (.230, p = .000) indicated that prolonged social media use was associated with increased disordered eating behaviours.
5. More than 5 Hours: A moderate positive correlation (.457, p < .001) revealed a strong association between excessive social media use and disordered eating behaviours.

Objective two: The findings demonstrate a trend where increased social media usage is associated with higher levels of disordered eating behaviours. While minimal use appears to be protective, excessive engagement correlates with heightened body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating patterns.

The study aimed to establish the types of social media that influence eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Correlation analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed significant positive relationships between social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok) and eating attitudes, suggesting that increased engagement with these platforms is associated with more problematic eating behaviours

1. Twitter exhibited the strongest correlation with eating attitudes (r = .578, p = .000), indicating that its weight-related discussions, body image comparisons, and exposure to diet trends contribute significantly to disordered eating behaviours.
2. Facebook followed closely (r = .518, p = .000), reinforcing its role in fostering social comparison through shared images, status updates, and peer interactions emphasizing physical appearance.
3. Instagram also demonstrated a strong correlation (r = .485, p = .000), with its curated and often edited visual content promoting unrealistic beauty standards that contribute to body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating patterns.
4. TikTok showed the weakest, though still significant, correlation (r = .428, p = .000), likely due to its algorithm-driven exposure to fitness and diet-related content that fosters body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviours.

• Intercorrelations between Platforms: The study revealed strong intercorrelations between social media platforms (e.g., Facebook-Twitter, r = .688, p = .000; Twitter-Instagram, r = .629, p = .000), suggesting that users active on one platform are likely engaged on others, amplifying exposure to appearance-focused content.
• Psychological Mechanisms: Social comparison theory explains these findings, as individuals tend to evaluate themselves against idealized social media portrayals, influencing their eating attitudes. Social media algorithms reinforce these behaviours by curating and recommending similar content, creating an echo chamber effect that exacerbates body image concerns.
• Platform-Specific Influences: While Twitter facilitates body image-related discussions, Instagram and Facebook promote visual comparisons, and TikTok exposes users to unregulated health and diet advice. These mechanisms collectively contribute to negative eating attitudes among university students.

The study confirms that social media platforms significantly influence eating attitudes among university students, with Twitter exhibiting the strongest impact.

Objective three: This study examined the relationship between various functions of social media use (social, academic, informative, and entertainment) and eating disorders among university students in Langata Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya. Spearman’s rho correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between all four social media functions and eating attitudes, indicating that different forms of social media engagement influence disordered eating behaviours.

• Social Use: A strong correlation (ρ=.559, p<.001) was observed, suggesting that social interactions on social media contribute to body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating habits. Exposure to peer comparisons and idealized body images appears to play a significant role.
• Academic Use: The academic function of social media was significantly associated with disordered eating (ρ=.652, p<.001). Stress from academic content and social comparison in academic settings may contribute to body image concerns.
• Informative Use: Informational engagement showed a strong correlation (ρ=.707, p<.001), indicating that exposure to diet trends, fitness influencers, and wellness content on social media can lead to unhealthy eating attitudes.
• Entertainment Use: The highest correlation (ρ=.707, p<.001) was found between entertainment-related social media use and eating attitudes, highlighting how exposure to curated and idealized content fosters negative body image perceptions and disordered eating behaviours.

Objective four:The study assessed students’ resilience levels when faced with the challenges of social media. The descriptive statistics revealed moderate resilience levels among respondents, with mean scores ranging from 2.78 to 3.10. While some students actively sought ways to cope with social media challenges, others struggled with adaptability. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to enhance resilience and promote healthy social media habits.

Strategies for Mitigating the Impact of Social Media on Eating Behaviours

1. Educational Campaigns
   • Awareness campaigns on body image and healthy eating habits should be organized by universities.
   • Workshops, seminars, and social media literacy programs can educate students on recognizing unrealistic beauty standards and avoiding harmful dieting trends.
   • Experts can lead discussions on the psychological impact of social media on self-esteem and eating behaviours.
2. Support Networks
   • Establishing mental health support services within universities to provide counseling and therapy for students dealing with body image concerns.
   • Creating peer-led support groups to offer emotional support and a safe space for discussions on eating behaviors and social media influences.
   • Partnering with healthcare professionals to conduct screenings for eating disorders and provide early interventions.
3. Engaging Influencers
   • Collaborating with social media influencers who promote body positivity and balanced lifestyles.
   • Universities can invite these influencers to hold talks or online sessions to counteract harmful social media trends and encourage healthier habits.
4. Interactive Campaigns
   • Utilizing hashtag challenges and live Q&A sessions with experts to engage students in discussions on social media’s impact on mental health.
   • Integrating media psychology and digital well-being discussions into the academic curriculum to raise awareness about social media’s influence on eating behaviours.
5. University Collaborations
   • Partnering with institutions to integrate wellness programs, webinars, and workshops into the academic curriculum.
   • Implementing policies to address cyberbullying and body shaming, which contribute to negative body image and disordered eating.
6. Content Moderation and Reporting
   • Collaborating with social media platforms to filter or flag harmful content promoting unhealthy body standards.
   • Encouraging students to report concerning content and providing digital literacy programs to educate them on identifying and managing harmful online material.
7. Promoting Physical Activity and Digital Detox
   • Encouraging offline engagement through sports, creative arts, and wellness programs to reduce screen time.
   • Promoting physical activity through accessible fitness programs and virtual exercise sessions that emphasize balanced lifestyles.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study underscored the significant role that social media plays in influencing eating behaviours among university students in Langata Subcounty. The study revealed that prolonged exposure to social media, particularly platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, was strongly associated with disordered eating behaviours. While limited social media use appeared to have protective effects, excessive engagement contributed to heightened disordered eating behaviours. These findings aligned with existing literature, which suggested that social comparison and exposure to idealized body standards on social media can negatively impact eating attitudes and behaviours.

Moreover, the study demonstrated that different functions of social media—whether social, academic, informative, or entertainment—are linked to eating disorders in varying degrees. Informational and entertainment-related social media use exhibited the strongest associations, indicating that exposure to fitness influencers, diet trends, and curated content significantly contributes to unhealthy eating attitudes. Additionally, social media’s algorithm-driven content amplification may create echo chambers that reinforce negative perceptions of body image. These findings highlighted the importance of fostering digital literacy among students to help them critically engage with online content and make informed decisions regarding their dietary habits.

To mitigate the adverse effects of social media on students’ eating behaviours, the study recommended the implementation of media literacy programs, mental health support services, and university-led awareness campaigns on eating behaviours. Universities should collaborate with influencers who promote body positivity and balanced lifestyles while also engaging students in discussions about the psychological impact of social media. Furthermore, institutional policies aimed at addressing cyberbullying, body shaming, and harmful diet culture on social media can help create a healthier digital environment for students.

While social media serves as a powerful tool for information sharing and social interaction, its influence on eating behaviours necessitates a proactive approach to safeguard students’ well-being.

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