











The selfie has become a central trend on social media, reflecting a strong desire to appear and share an idealized image of oneself. This seemingly simple act – taking and posting a self-portrait – often reveals a deeper need for validation through likes, comments, and shares. The compulsive posting of selfies can sometimes indicate emotional fragility and, in certain cases, pathological narcissism. In the United States, the term “Selfie Syndrome” has already emerged to describe a condition linked to an obsession with one’s digital image. In an era where every user has their own audience, the constant exposure of an “ideal self” can fuel a cycle of dependency on admiration from others. Interestingly, research shows that images of friends – rather than those of celebrities – have a stronger influence on users, as the comparison with real, relatable people is perceived as more authentic and meaningful.