What Americans Are Most Self-Conscious About
October 5, 2023 6:52PM CDT
We like to think we outgrow our insecurities, but new research suggests that might not be the case. A survey of 2-thousand U.S. adults between 25 and 45 years old finds that 68% of them admit they sometimes feel as awkward as they did as teenagers.
According to the poll:
- The average person felt their most awkward at age 17.
- As teens, respondents were most self-conscious about their body shape (65%), hairstyle (61%) and smile (61%).
- As a result of insecurities, only 30% will stand in the front row of a group photo, and men are more likely to do so (34% compared to 24% of women.)
- Selfies make some folks anxious (41%) or stressed (36%), while some feel excited (36%).
- Nearly three-quarters (72%) of respondents have had a “glow up” since they were teenagers, leading to clearer skin (53%), better hair (51%), a more fit body (50%) and straighter teeth (49%).
- After their glow-up, 83% say they felt more confident.
- The top things people would like to improve about themselves now include eyesight (54%), fashion style (54%), physical fitness (53%) and their smile (41%).
The top things people were self-conscious about as teens:
- Body shape – 65%
- Hairstyle – 61%
- Smile – 61%
- Voice – 58%
- Posture – 58%
- Braces/aligners – 58%
- Acne – 57%
- Height – 56%
- Glasses/contact lenses – 55%
The Top things people are self-conscious about as adults:
- Body shape – 55%
- Hairstyle – 53%
- Smile – 52%
- Height – 48%
- Posture – 48%
- Voice – 47%
- Braces/aligners – 46%
- Acne – 46%
- Glasses/contact lenses – 45%
Source: SWNS Digital
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