Young adults (18–25 years old) spend a majority of their waking hours with technology and young adult-
hood is an important developmental time period for establishing lasting health behaviors. Considering
the relevance of technology and health during young adulthood the current study explored young adults
(N = 34) perceptions of social media’s (e.g., social networking) influence on their health behaviors (i.e.,
diet and exercise) using a social ecological framework. Data was collected through eight focus groups
and four individual interviews. Three themes were identified through phenomenological qualitative
analysis. Young adults perceived that technology could be both a barrier and a motivator for exercise.
Social media was also credited with expanding food choices through creating access to a variety of
recipes, providing a venue for showcasing the food young adults eat or prepare, and distracting young
adults from making positive food choices. Participants also reported that it is common to post statuses
or pictures relating to exercise practices on social media during young adulthood. Young adults indicated
that these posts could be inspirational or misused, depending on the context. Results are discussed in
terms of theory and preliminary implications.