Body Image
Body image is the view we have of ourselves and what we see when we think about our bodies and our physical appearance.
- Body image is influenced by standards set by society and the culture that surrounds us. As well, our family and individual experiences influence body image.
- Self-esteem impacts on how we view our bodies and is related to how one evaluates one's own physical abilities, job skills, interpersonal abilities, family role and body image.
- Low self-esteem may develop if "ideal" body standards are not met and may result in size misperceptions, faulty beliefs about shape and negative feelings about one's body.
- Negative body image may develop or be influenced by a history of abuse (physical or sexual), teasing by friends or family, life changes such as moving to a new school or city, and any physical changes that may be a result of puberty, medical problems, surgery or sports injuries.
- Problems with body image and experiencing body dissatisfaction place one at risk for the development of an eating disorder.
- Individuals with anorexia or bulimia nervosa often experience themselves as being larger than they actually are resulting in negative body image and increase dieting behaviour.
- An increase in dieting behaviour is associated with depression, decreased sell-confidence, increased feelings of anxiety, feelings of unattractiveness and persistent concern about weight.
- People with negative body image describe:
- dissatisfaction with their physical appearance
- belief that their appearance is being scrutinized and evaluated by others
- excessive importance given to physical appearance in how they evaluate themselves
- distressing preoccupation with their body
- feelings of shame and or embarrassment
- Positive body image describes:
- self-confidence, energy, vitality and positive self-appraisal
- feelings of attractiveness and beauty
- trust and respect for one's body
- freedom of expression with one's body not dependent on weight
Body image therapy and counselling may facilitate changes in eating and help people overcome eating disturbance symptoms. Body image work should be emphasized in the treatment of anorexia and bulimia nervosa for complete recovery from the disorder. Body image therapy may occur in individual or group settings and may include: cognitive behavioural interventions, psychotherapy, psychoeducational groups, movement therapy and expressive art therapies, guided imagery, journaling, political consciousness raising, media literacy and support groups.
- People with negative body image may:
- engage in excessive body checking (weighing, measuring, and trying on clothing)
- camouflage their size and shape with loose and bulky clothing
- avoid social situations that trigger physical self-consciousness
- avoid exposing their bodies (not wearing bathing suits or shorts)
Download Fact Sheets
