Fact Check: "Online camming may combat body dysmorphia in men, study suggests."
What We Know
Recent discussions have emerged regarding the potential benefits of online camming platforms in addressing body dysmorphia among men. A study highlighted by PsyPost suggests that adult webcam platforms can foster body positivity for men. The study indicates that these platforms may provide a space for men to connect with performers and engage in positive body image discussions, potentially mitigating feelings of inadequacy related to their physical appearance.
Muscle dysmorphia, a specific type of body dysmorphic disorder, affects a notable percentage of men. According to a study published in 2025, the prevalence of probable muscle dysmorphia was found to be 2.8% among a sample of boys and men in Canada and the United States (Ganson et al., 2025) [source-1]. This condition is characterized by an obsessive focus on perceived muscular inadequacies, often leading to harmful behaviors aimed at increasing muscularity.
Additionally, research on adolescents with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) indicates that social media plays a significant role in shaping body image perceptions. A study found that adolescents with BDD reported engaging in more online appearance comparisons, which could exacerbate their condition (Lavell et al., 2024) [source-2]. This suggests that while social media can be a source of distress, it may also offer avenues for positive reinforcement when utilized in supportive environments, such as online camming.
Analysis
The claim that online camming may combat body dysmorphia in men is supported by preliminary findings indicating that these platforms can promote body positivity. The study referenced by PsyPost emphasizes the potential for online camming to create a more accepting environment for men regarding their body image [source-4]. However, the evidence is still emerging, and the claim requires further exploration to establish a causal relationship.
While the study by Ganson et al. (2025) highlights the prevalence of muscle dysmorphia, it does not directly address the impact of online camming on this condition [source-1]. The findings from Lavell et al. (2024) regarding social media usage among adolescents with BDD suggest that online interactions can have both positive and negative effects on body image, indicating a complex relationship that warrants more nuanced research [source-2].
The reliability of the sources varies; the studies cited are peer-reviewed and published in reputable journals, which lends credibility to their findings. However, the specific claim about online camming's benefits is based on a single study, which may not comprehensively represent the broader context of body dysmorphia and its treatment.
Conclusion
Needs Research. While there is some evidence suggesting that online camming may provide a supportive environment for men struggling with body image issues, the claim lacks robust empirical backing. The relationship between online interactions and body dysmorphia is complex and requires further investigation to determine the efficacy of online camming as a potential intervention. More comprehensive studies are needed to explore the long-term effects and mechanisms through which online platforms may influence body image perceptions among men.
