Influences on Body Image

What is body image?

Body image is a person’s view of his or her own physical body. Some people develop unrealistic body images

based on what they think a perfect body should look like.

What are some things that influence a person’s idea about what a perfect body should be?

Friends, family, culture and the media all play a role in determining what people think is a

“perfect” body.

Perfect Bodies

Media and advertisers portray unrealistic bodies because they want to sell products. Media images are often computer generated, enhanced or modified to make models look appealing. As a result, many of us grow up with a misguided

idea of what a normal body looks like. Only 1% of women in the world are able to be as thin as one of these models.

These body image influences start young.

The Truth About Barbie & Ken

• If Barbie were a real woman, she would be 7 feet tall. Her bust would be 38-40 inches, her waist 18-24 inches and her hips 33-35 inches. Her weight would be 110 pounds. If she were a real woman, Barbie would have to walk on all fours due to her proportions.

• If Ken were a real man, he would be 7 feet, 8 inches tall. An average man would have to add 7 inches to his chest and about 8 inches to his neck to equal Ken’s measurements.

One way to overcome negative influence on a body image is to take time to reflect on what you

like about your body.

Turn to “Body Image Assessment” on page 24.

Take a moment to honestly complete Part 1 of the activity sheet. You will not be asked to share your responses.

Another strategy to overcome negative influences on body image is to take steps to improve your physical health.

Turn to the completed “Tracking My Progress” sheet on page 18.

What is one positive accomplishment you have made toward your nutrition physical activity

goal?

What are some other things teens can do to develop a realistic and healthy body image?

Some things teens can do:

• Recognize the negative influences of media on body image.

• Recognize when family and friends are positively or negatively influencing your body image.

• Reflect on your qualities other than your physical characteristics.

• Use self-talk techniques to counteract negative influences.

Complete part 2 of the “Body Image Assessment”

What can you do to support others in their efforts to have a realistic and healthy body

image?

You can supports others by:

• Complimenting friends on their positive characteristics and personal qualities and not just on the way they look.

• Encouraging and supporting friends’ efforts to exercise.

• Encouraging and supporting friends’ efforts to eat healthy.

• Not engaging in or being a bystander to put-downs and disrespectful behaviors targeting the physical appearance of others.