Editing the self in pictures: Selfie editing promotes self-objectification among Chinese

Selfie-editing behavior has become a great popularity globally. Due to the widespread prevalence of selfie-related behaviors, it is of great significance to explore the negative consequences of selfie-related behaviors. However, evidence concerning the underlying psychological mechanisms, and potential gender differences in the relationship between selfie editing and self-objectification, are scarce. Two studies were conducted to examine the promoting effect of selfie editing on self-objectification and the mediating role of body surveillance. Potential gender differences were also examined. In Study 1, an online correlational study with 342 participants was conducted. In Study 2, an experimental study was conducted, 136 college students were instructed to take and edit a selfie or object photo. We found that both a greater frequency of selfie editing and selfie-editing (vs. object-editing) behavior shortly induced in the lab were associated with increased self-objectification. In addition, body surveillance mediated the association. Furthermore, there was no gender difference. Findings from the current study shed insights into the psychological risks of selfie editing on self-perception of body image and enrich our understanding of the antecedents of self-objectification. Implications for research on objectification theory, selfie editing, and women’s well-being were discussed.