5 harmful effects of social networks on men’s sexual psychology

According to Dr.BS.CK2 Tra Anh Duy, Men’s Health Center, the development of social networks affects social, physical and psychological aspects, significantly impacting psychological health. men’s sexuality. These effects include both positive and negative, depending on how men use and react to content and interactions on social networking platforms.

Below are aspects in which social networks can affect psychological and sexual health in men.

Increased pressure on body image

A study by Griffiths and colleagues (2018), published in Body Image, found that frequent exposure to images of ideal-looking men on social media can increase image pressure. body and form a sense of inferiority in men.

When comparing their bodies to these “perfect” models, men may feel less attractive and dissatisfied with their appearance, leading to reduced confidence during sex. This dissatisfaction can affect desire and feelings of comfort in romantic relationships.

Affects self-esteem and sex life

Social media’s constant emphasis on beauty standards and personal success can make men feel self-conscious or not “worthy” enough.

A study by Vogel and colleagues (2014), published in Psychology of Popular Media Culture, found that people who tend to compare themselves with others on social networks often have lower self-esteem. In a sexual relationship, this low self-esteem can reduce your ability to express yourself and connect emotionally with your partner, leading to feelings of isolation and less comfort during intimate contact.

Causes loss of confidence and increased anxiety about sexual performance

The prevalence of sexual content on social media can create unrealistic expectations about sexual performance.

Research by Seabrook and colleagues (2016), published in the Journal of Sex Research, shows that exposure to idealized sexual content on social networks can create feelings of pressure and anxiety. anxiety about sexual performance in men. They may fear they are not good enough or cannot realistically meet these standards.

This anxiety about sexual performance reduces the ability to enjoy sex life, which can cause erectile dysfunction due to psychological stress.

Increased thinking depends on social validation

Social media promotes a mindset of seeking recognition from the community through posts, likes, and comments.

A study by Andreassen and colleagues (2017), published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, found that men tend to depend on validation from social networks to feel confident and proud of themselves. When this extends to sexual relationships, men can feel inadequate if they do not receive affirmation from their partner, easily become pressured, and lose confidence in their relationship.

Increased unrealistic expectations and social comparison effects

One of the main negative effects of social networks on men’s sexual psychology is the creation of unrealistic sexual standards.

According to research by Perloff (2014), published in Sex Roles, when men are exposed to idealized sexual content, they tend to feel less confident and become worried about their abilities in sex. actual sexual relationship. This social comparison effect can reduce your ability to enjoy your sex life and cause unnecessary psychological stress.

According to Dr. Duy, social networks have a strong impact on men’s psychological and sexual health, from increasing pressure on appearance and sexual performance, to reducing self-esteem and creating dependence. on social recognition. However, social media also provides a space for men to learn and connect about sexual issues, which can be beneficial for increasing awareness and confidence.

Therefore, awareness of the effects can help men use social networks in a healthy, reasonable way and avoid negative effects on sexual psychology.