How Does Media Affect Children's Body Image?

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With the ever increasing size and influence of social media in our daily lives, we are seeing more and more individuals suffer from the negative effects of being constantly exposed to images of "ideal" bodies in media. In “beauty and thinness messages in children’s media analysis” states that “ research suggests that young children have body image concerns, such as a desire for thinness and an avoidance to obesity,” the analysis continues with saying that “few studies have investigated how children’s body preferences and stereotypes are influenced by media aimed at children(Herbozo S, Tantleff-Dunn S, Gokee-Larose J, Thompson JK.,2004).” The reshaping of beauty standards are fueled by unrealistic expectations through media, as there has been …show more content…
Girls are terrified to gain weight and are continually reminded by the media about various new diet products on the market, and the value in weight loss. They are also bombarded by countless television shows on plastic surgery, and the number of cosmetic surgeries in this country is increasing every year (Hawkins, 2009).” One study found that 63% of female participants identified weight as the key factor in determining how they felt about themselves - more important than family, school, or career (Hawkins, 2009). Other research suggests that 86% of all women are dissatisfied with their bodies and want to lose weight. As of today, we are living in a society where young girls believe the one way to definitely improve their self-image and to feel more confident is to lose weight and become …show more content…
In a society that promotes unrealistic body expectations, it is challenging to not get caught up in comparing oneself to these unrealistic standards. As a result of attempting to live up to these standards, many individuals may experience depression, anxiety, anger and even self-loathing (The Albert Ellis Institute, 2014). There have been numerous studies that have shown us how the media can lead to a negative perception of a person's body image. The prevalent use of Photoshop can be used as an example of this. Photoshop has become a major factor photo editing and developing. Many magazines have even taken their use of Photoshop to extreme levels, by almost completely reimaging the model that is being used to fit into their idea of “beauty.” In a study conducted in person and online by the University of St. Andrews in 2014, Scottish researchers found the unrealistic expectations of how men and women should look are heavily influenced by the Internet. Results showed people without Internet access preferred feminine men and masculine women with higher body fat, whereas people with Internet access were more likely to find skinny women and masculine men more attractive(Tippett,
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