Body Image is the outlook or viewpoint that an individual has of their own body. It is a mental representation of one’s physical appearance and this opinion about one’s body can be positive, negative, or both. Different factors are involved in influencing people about their body image. It can vary from individual beliefs and experiences to social comparison.
Research indicates that body image is established in infancy. Close personal contact between an infant and their caregiver such as kisses, hugs, etc., aids in originating a positive body image. Conversely, a lack of close personal contact between an infant and their caregiver can develop a negative body image. Individuals who have a positive body image are known to accept and appreciate their bodies, which in turn increases their self-esteem and self-confidence. On the contrary, individuals who have a negative body image are discontented with their bodies. They may feel embarrassed and even uncomfortable in their body.
Tracing the origin of body image leads us back to the portrayals of women in the earlier days. Before the 20th Century, the ideal body type for women was described as curvy. Over the years, this ideal body type has undergone a few changes. Women were depicted as curvy but with slim waists in mainstream magazines. Later, the ideal body type was that of a lean woman with an athletic body. It is this body type that is of interest today as well.
Media today has a massive role to play when it comes to influencing body image. Print and visual media are known to use individuals who are closer to the ideal body type to promote their products. This is especially done because it is believed that consumers are inclined to be more receptive to advertisements with attractive people.
Recently, social media has been a significant cause of body image-related issues. People spend hours online skimming through social media sites, looking at individuals with a specific body type. This continuous consumption of a set body type shapes one’s body image and it is mostly negative. They hold themselves in comparison with what they see and if it does not match, they even resort to unhealthy ways to acquire the ‘ideal body type.’ Moreover, being criticized by others regarding their body can also lead to individuals gaining a negative body image.
Importance of Professional Counseling: A friend or family member may listen to you, but they aren’t professionally, technically qualified or experienced to offer you professional advice. If you wish you can contact us at MindTribe to receive help from our team of expert psychologists.
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About the Author.
Valentina A. Chettiar is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.
Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.