No Anti-Hero: Taylor Swift inspiring body positivity, researchers say

"Seems the only one who doesn't see your beauty
is the face in the mirror looking back at you."

Both in songs and on social media, Taylor Swift has repeatedly addressed her past issues surrounding body image - and in doing is positively impacting fans with their own struggles, a US research team has found.

Publishing in specialist magazine Social Science & Medicine in August, the study authors analysed around 200 posts published by Swift fans on Reddit and TikTok.

Many so-called Swifties see the musician as a pioneer in dealing with eating disorders, and Swift's openness has inspired them to overcome their own illnesses, the authors say.

Many fans point to the documentary "Miss Americana" (2020) in which Swift spoke about her own struggles with an eating disorder.

Swifties are also posting lyrics that suggest mental health trouble. Songs such as "You're On Your Own, Kid" and "Tied Together With a Smile" were used by fans to deal with their own insecurities, the researchers said.

However, the topic of body image in connection with Taylor Swift was also the subject of controversy on social media. According to the researchers, the music video for the song "Anti-Hero" from 2022 triggered a debate. In the original version of the clip, Swift stood on a scale displaying the word "fat" in one scene.

While some fans defended the depiction as an expression of Swift's own insecurities, others felt hurt by it. The artist later replaced the video online with another version that no longer contained the word.

The authors also noted that fans objectified their idol in social media posts, sometimes comparing recent pictures of Swift with older images. Users commented on how "healthy" and "happy" Swift looked in comparison to when she was younger.

At the same time, however, many fans criticized media reports that focused on Swift's appearance or weight.

"The results of this analysis indicate that Swift's experiences, voice, and music are powerful forces that deeply influence her fans' relationships with food, their bodies, and their mental health," study authors Lizzy Pope and Kelsey L. Rose from the University of Vermont.

"There is little doubt that if she chooses to be, Swift can be a powerful voice for weight-inclusive practices, and the deconstruction of thin privilege that may move society closer to the idea of body liberation."