Teens and Body Image

The body undergoes so many changes at such a rapid rate and the need for acceptance can make it hard for kids to know if they are “normal” compared to their peers. And the most discouraging part is that puberty can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years!!

Not only do you have your peers to hamper you, the media can have a bigger effect than any other factor in a teen's life. The media constantly bombards the public with images of skeleton thin models, commercials about the latest diets, those cutesy little pop singers with large breasts and thin waists. This can give anyone an unrealistic expectation of themselves.

There is also a rise in teen boys who are having body image fears. Teen girls feel pressured to be smaller and thinner where as the guys are feeling the pressure to bulk up and look strong. Many teen males look for role models in sporting activities and will hear reports of steroids and other illegal drugs to help enhance their appearance.

Parents as Role Models

The most important issue to look at in a teen's life that affects their self-esteem and body image is their home life. So many parents spend more time criticizing their children than commending them. Always remember that learning starts at home. The criticisms a parent says to a child could turn into that “voice inside their heads” when it comes to how children feel about themselves.Criticize in a positive way. Instead of telling a child that they are stupid, tell them that everyone makes mistakes and he will do better next time.

Another way that their body image and self-esteem can be hurt at home is how you feel about our own self! Are you always on a diet? Are you always looking in the mirror and saying you are fat or you need to change something about your body? Kids are like sponges and they are very observant.

You Can't Change Your Appearance

Some teens may feel the only way to feel better about themselves is to change the way they look. In some cases it may be true depending on how overweight they are but reprogramming the way they see their body can make them feel better and help them defend themselves when they hear comments from others.

Also teaching them that there are some things about our bodies that we can’t change like our height, shoe size, and facial features. If a teen feels she must lose weight, teach her to eat right and exercise not diet that may develop an eating disorder. The best thing to do is “lead by example”. Kids look up to parents. If a parent is eating right and doing the right thing, so will the children. And what better way to get in some quality time with your child by going for a walk with them or popping in an exercise tape and doing it together.

Sadness

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