Social Media & Gen Z Beauty Standards
Learning Goals:
Analyze how media constructs identity and influences perceptions of beauty.
Apply media literacy concepts to global issues.
Evaluate messages in media using critical lenses.
Make personal and cultural connections to media consumption and production.
Al Jazeera English – “How social media is influencing Gen Z beauty standards | The Stream”
Instructions: Watch the video and respond to the questions thoughtfully. Use examples from the video and your own insight. Where appropriate, reference media terminology or theory.
Summarize the main argument or issue being discussed in the video.
Who are the key voices featured in the conversation? What perspectives or experiences do they bring?
What role do filters and AI technology play in shaping beauty standards on social media?
How does the concept of the “Instagram face” or "TikTok face" illustrate the homogenization of beauty across cultures?
What evidence is presented to show how these beauty standards are affecting mental health or self-image among Gen Z?
The video discusses the role of influencers and content creators in spreading beauty ideals. Do you think they are responsible for shaping harmful standards, or are they also victims of the same system? Defend your answer.
Apply the media theory of “the male gaze” or “representation” to explain how beauty is framed in this video.
How does the platform economy (e.g., algorithms, monetization, virality) influence the beauty content that Gen Z consumes?
What is the impact of globalized beauty trends on cultural or ethnic identity? Are these trends erasing or commodifying cultural features?
Think about your own digital space — who or what shapes your perception of beauty online?
Do you believe that Gen Z is more aware and critical of these media messages than previous generations? Why or why not?
What role should schools, governments, or platforms play in addressing the negative impacts of digital beauty standards?