Is the primary purpose of taking selfies to share them with others?
The primary purpose of taking selfies is not solely to share them with others. While sharing selfies on social media platforms has become a prevalent aspect of modern communication, the act of taking selfies serves multiple functions for individuals. Research suggests that narcissistic individuals may take more solo selfies, but the prevalence of selfies featuring other people indicates that capturing memories and documenting experiences with friends and family is also an important reason for taking selfies. Moreover, selfies can serve as a means for individuals to control their image and project a desired self-presentation to the world. The ability to create and curate one's own image through selfies can be empowering and a form of self-expression.
Additionally, taking and sharing selfies can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem. Studies have shown that sharing selfies can increase social sensitivity, while taking them without sharing can decrease self-esteem. The act of taking selfies can also be a form of self-reflection and self-exploration, allowing individuals to examine and appreciate their own appearance. Furthermore, the rise of the selfie as a cultural phenomenon indicates that people enjoy both taking and viewing selfies, suggesting that the act of capturing and sharing images of oneself is a fundamental aspect of human communication and self-expression.