“I who fight in this quarantine to stay with this body”: discourses on body and food in social networks in times of social isolation

Abstract

Social detachment was adopted as a measure to confront covid19. In this context, the use of social networks is highlighted as a way of ensuring social interaction and access to information. However, the negative effects are the strengthening of socio-cultural variables that idealize thinness and favor weight stigma. In this way, this study aims to evaluate the content of comments associated with publications focused on the body exposure of 10 profiles of women considered fitness influencers on Instagram. Following a qualitative approach, 1 publication from each influencer was selected, posted during a month of distance in Brazil. The comments were subjected to content analysis, and divided into four categories of analysis: "Comments related to quarantine / social detachment."; “The exaltation of the influencer's body”; “Desirability for the influencer's body”; "Demonstrations of unworthiness and blame for food." There was a large increase in publications stereotyping obesity, and a greater concern with weight gain, due to changes in eating behavior caused by isolation and lack of physical activity. In addition, the idolatry and glamorization of thinness was found, attributing to it success, happiness and social acceptance. Several comments present content of desire to modify the body itself, aiming to acquire the personal achievements associated with it. Therefore, the idea is sold that the ideal body is easily attainable when you have willpower, increasing feelings of guilt and frustration and contributing to the strengthening of the stigma of obesity.