In today’s episode of Bite Back with Abbey Sharp, I am continuing my investigation on SkinnyTok, today alongside esteemed journalist EJ Dickson. As part of an investigative story for The Cut, EJ Dickson infiltrated SkinnyTok creator, Liv Schmitt’s subscription-only Instagram group called the Skinny Societé. For $20 per month, members were promised Liv’s exclusive “skinny” weight loss recipes, workout videos, and personal food diaries along with access to group DM threads where members could share weight loss goals, progress, tips and tricks and accountability to the luxurious “skinny life”. We talk about dangerous disordered content and recommendations in the chat groups, the droves of underage members (and lack of verification of ages), and the competitive nature of these weight loss groups. We also talk about how Skinnytok is often painted as more than just a community for sharing weight loss tips, but it’s about achieving an entire luxury brand. EJ and I also talk about how skinnytok messaging is often wrapped up as in the language of health, empowerment, self care, feminism, and investing in yourself. I finish this episode talking about why social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok are not doing their part to protect young people from disordered content, and some suggestions on what they can do better.
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Here’s a run down of what we discussed in today’s episode on the Skinny Societé and SkinnyTok:
Check in with today’s amazing guest: EJ Dickson
References:
Disclaimer: The content in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is never a substitute for medical advice. If you’re struggling with with your mental or physical health, please work one on one with a health care provider.
If you have heard yourself in our discussion today, and are looking for support, contact the free NEDIC helpline at 1-866-NEDIC-20 or go to eatingdisorderhope.com.
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