Degree Name
Master of Science
Graduate Program
Mass Communication and Media Arts
Advisor
Robert Spahr
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the power and influence of fashion
magazines on Caucasian teenaged girls, aged 13 to 18 years old. Strong negative
associations were found between exposure to fashion magazines and teenage girls`
perceptions of their bodies. Furthermore, the present research studied teenagers online
activities and behavior in order to support the statement that the best way to reach
teenage girls in digital era is through online community. The lack of websites and
magazines that promote positive and healthy body image reinforced the need for
creation of an online community targeted at “plus size” teenaged girls aged 14 to 20.
Detailed description of the goals, content and interaction with the members of the
Fashimia online community are provided in this paper.