Social media, looksmaxxing, and why men struggle with body image, with Roberto Olivardia, PhD

Body image dissatisfaction and muscle dysmorphia represent a growing, often overlooked, crisis among men and boys. Clinical psychologist Dr. Roberto Olivardia notes that approximately 25% of individuals with eating disorders are male, yet they frequently remain undiagnosed due to societal perceptions that equate extreme muscularity with health and masculinity. Social media platforms, particularly within the "manosphere," intensify this pressure by promoting appearance-modification trends like "looksmaxxing" and the use of dangerous performance-enhancing substances. These digital environments often foster obsessive behaviors, where the pursuit of an idealized physique leads to social isolation, professional impairment, and severe health complications. Effective treatment requires moving beyond physical goals to address underlying psychological triggers through cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, helping individuals decouple their self-worth from their appearance and re-align their lives with core values like connection and authentic self-respect.