Society's body image ideals and expectations

 

We know that a lot of women have body image issues thanks to advertising and celebrity coverage. But it turns out that the vast majority of us are unhappy with the way we look, according to a new survey by Loose Women. The show interviewed 5,000 women as part of their Frank And Fearless survey which looked into their lives, relationships, opinions and families. A massive 74% of women said that they felt uncomfortable when they see their bodies in the mirror.

74%

of girls say they are under pressure to please everyone (Girls Inc, The Supergirl Dilemma)

98%

… of girls feel there is an immense pressure from external sources to look a certain way (National Report on Self Esteem)

92%

… of teen girls would like to change something about the way they look, with body weight ranking the highest. (Dove campaign)

90%

… of eating disorders are found in girls (National Association for Self Esteem)

1 in 4 girls

today fall into a clinical diagnosis – depression, eating disorders, cutting, and other mental/emotional disorders.  On top of these, many more report being constantly anxious, sleep deprived, and under significant pressure. (The Triple Bind, Steven Hinshaw)

We live in a country that has crafted its own textbook definition of perfect, and many young adults and teenagers latch onto this image for dear life. Unfortunately, the idolization of having a “perfect” body can lead to eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia.

This topic is important to me as I know many girls that struggle with self image and I know that it effects everyone at times, even myself. I want women to embrace their bodies and learn to treat them with respect and appreciation. I want women to know that they're individual appearance is unique and amazing.