kycher's Journal

body self respect
Nov 07 2009 16:13

I am a University student conducting a study on body image,  the effects media, personality, family as well as others have on our thoughts about dieting and our self image.this is for my own purpose of interest and is confidential.Body image is how you see yourself in the mirror/ mind, what you believe about your appearance, how you feel about your body(weight, shape,height), and how you sense and control your body as you move i.e. how you feel in your body not just about your body.

The desire for thinness among women is so prevalent that it is identified as a "normative discontent" (Rodin et al, 1985). 42% of 1st -3rd grade girls want to be thinner ( collins, 1991). 81% of 10 year old girls are afraid of being fat( Mellin et al., 1991)and report this is a greater fear than parents dying.

The average American woman is 5'4" and weighs 140lbs, the average model is 5'11" and weighs 117lbs. Media content-  ideal body image promoted for females is: young,, extremely thin, long-legged, tall, an image that is impossible for most women to achieve. The ideal body image for males: young, lean, muscled, 6-pack abdomen, broad shoulders and narrow waist, image may be achievable if genetically endowed and through unhealthy means.

So many of us are taking this image of the perfect body to an unhealthy level, i as well am guilty of this in previous years. The idea that should be promoted is everything in moderation, instead of litterally killing ourselves to get to this much sought out "ideal".Being healthy is best, in my opinion. My question to you, is how far are you willing to let your desire to be "ideal" affect your own personal health and everyday living? Comments please!