Slimming selfie app criticized for encouraging an unhealthy body image

A new camera app that lets users shed virtual weight by slimming down their face in selifes is being criticized for encouraging an unhealthy body image among its young and often impressionable users. SkinneePix for the iPhone allows its users to trim between five to 15 pounds of virtual fat for their face, providing a slimmer look to a selfie. The app was originally designed as a motivational tool for overweight people to picture the changes in their appearance if they lose weight. Social worker Lauren Dickson, who works in the eating disorders and addiction clinic at the Center of Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto is concerned about the apps contribution to eating disorders as users view themselves to be fat when they are not. “The media obviously has some effect on people developing eating disorders, but it’s not the only variable. It’s one of many factors,” she said in an interview. “The majority of young girls wouldn’t develop an eating disorder because of an app like this, but some might be more vulnerable and it could contribute,” Dickson added. These criticisms echo earlier complaints levied against Carrot Fit, an app that uses criticism to encourage users to lose weight. The app is one of several in a series that relies on the sharp personality of the in-app character “Carrot” to shame people into completing their tasks and waking up on time. Should we be concerned about these apps like SkinneePix and Carrot Fit or are people taking these titles too seriously? Let us know in the comments. [Via Reuters] Continue reading →

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