Statistics show that over 97 percent of women hate their bodies at any given time. The average woman has 13 negative body thoughts each day. Studies also indicate that more than 80 percent of American women are dissatisfied with their weight or overall appearance, while 10 million are dealing with eating disorders. These numbers may seem shocking, but they reflect today’s society. Every magazine and advertisement features perfect bodies and photoshopped faces that look flawless. It’s no wonder women are ashamed of their bodies.
Body Image and the Media
The media is heavily promoting thin bodies, no matter the cost. Many women would rather starve themselves than eat a piece of chocolate or an ice cream. From a young age, they aspire to Barbie-like measurements that are not possible without starvation or surgery.
Every day, women are comparing themselves to the Hollywood divas and models featured in magazines, on TV shows, and on billboards. As a result, about 81 percent of 10-year-olds are afraid of gaining weight.
There are many other reasons why women hate their bodies. For instance, attractive candidates have a better chance of getting jobs. Attractive children and teenagers are more popular. In today’s society, thin equals beautiful. Because of the media, people have become accustomed to extremely rigid beauty standards.
Body Hatred Is the New Normal
Teen girls read diet books, skip meals to stay thin, and measure their “thigh gap.” Some even receive weight loss advice from their mothers and teachers. Women greet each other with statements regarding their weight, such as: “You look amazing. Have you lost weight recently?”
Body hatred is the new normal. Most women are dissatisfied with their appearance, and they’re raising children who hate their bodies too. Even the youngest, most beautiful women complain about their thighs, hips, and abs. The only way to overcome these issues is to nurture resilience in our daughters and shift their focus from body image to self worth.
Photo by Vidmir Raic
