Social influence on maladaptive behavior

Abstract

The food industry is an incredibly large market, capturing a large percentage of consumer income. The industry has produced some negative implications, as the number of unhealthy adults rises. The habits of these unhealthy individuals have been influenced over their lifetime. For instance, social influences have shaped what they perceive as unhealthy or healthy. Likewise, social media has developed into another form of social influence affecting people's eating habits and body image. The process that leads to obesity or anorexia includes steps on addictive behavior, and a tipping point, which all can be influenced by social factors as well. This research paper looks at how healthy and unhealthy perceptions are formed, social influences on eating habits, and social media influences on eating habits.