13 Body Image
Alexandria Lewis
Content Outline, Competency, and KSAs
I. Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment
1A. Human Growth and Development
KSAs: Body image and its impact (e.g., identity, self-esteem, relationships, habits)
overview
Body Image Defined
Body image is a combination of thoughts and feelings a person has about their body and how they experience their body. Body image can range between positive and negative experiences. Body image is influenced by internal (e.g., personality) and external (e.g., social environment) factors.
Body image is defined in the APA Dictionary of Psychology as “the mental picture one forms of one’s body as a whole, including its physical characteristics (body percept) and one’s attitudes toward these characteristics (body concept).”
Positive Body Image Highlights:
- Positive self-worth, self-esteem, and confidence.
- Being around supportive friends and family who promote body positivity and acceptance can significantly impact one’s body image. They can help affirm that everyone’s bodies are unique and beautiful in their own way.
- Learning about the diversity of human bodies and understanding that there is not one “right” way to have a body can foster a positive body image.
- Exposure to and accepting different body types can normalize body diversity and contribute to a positive body image.
- Having a positive body image is about more than just feeling good about how one looks. It’s also about appreciating one’s body for its abilities, and not letting concerns about physical appearance interfere with one’s quality of life.
Negative Body Image Highlights:
- Certain health issues and disabilities may lead to changes in physical appearance, mobility, or capability, negatively impacting how a person views their body.
- Experiencing trauma or abuse can lead to a negative body image. This could be directly related to the body (like sexual abuse) or could be more indirect, such as the psychological impact of emotional abuse leading to low self-esteem and negative body image.
- Life stages that involve physical changes, such as puberty or post-pregnancy, can influence body image. People may struggle to accept these changes and develop negative feelings about their bodies.
- Personal factors could include personality traits like perfectionism or low self-esteem.
- Negative comments about one’s body from others, including friends, family, or strangers, can be internalized and lead to a negative body image.
Impact of a Negative Body Image:
- Low self-esteem and confidence.
- Depression and/or anxiety.
- Eating disorders.
- Social isolation.
- Unhealthy dietary practices.
- Reduced quality of life.
