>From simple snaps to full-on photo shoots, camera apps and filters are here to stay. But the growing popularity of “beauty filters” and face retouching features sparked an important question on Google’s Digital Wellbeing team: Do these filters have an impact on mental wellbeing?
After conducting multiple studies across four countries and speaking with child and mental health experts from around the world, we learned that the potential for harm is real. The studies showed that 80% of parents said that they’re worried about filters and two-thirds of teens have reported being bullied by peers based on how they look in their selfies. Fortunately, designers and developers can understand and address these issues early on by providing features without sending unintentional signals about personal worth or beauty norms.
After conducting multiple studies across four countries and speaking with child and mental health experts from around the world, we learned that the potential for harm is real. The studies showed that 80% of parents said that they’re worried about filters and two-thirds of teens have reported being bullied by peers based on how they look in their selfies. Fortunately, designers and developers can understand and address these issues early on by providing features without sending unintentional signals about personal worth or beauty norms.