Media and Body Image

The media has an awkward way of letting the masses know what is acceptable when it comes to body image. People get drawn to certain images in magazines and television shows when it comes to fashion and how others perceive you. Teens and young adults seem to be most vulnerable to body image theories since many ads are pitched to this market. There are companies and organizations that should be ashamed of how they use the media to market products that can make someone feel bad about themselves.

In some cases it can be difficult to find good examples of how the media can project positive body image among their intended audience. Print ads are common culprits that pose concern. They feature pictures of models wearing clothes that look too perfect on them. Then, young people feel this is the way they are supposed to look. It is not as easy to find plus-size models at times, even though there is a debate on whether people should avoid carrying additional weight. The media can be a good source to inform the public on ways to lead a positive lifestyle. But somewhere in the matrix this message gets lost and misconstrued.

Many people do not realize the effect media has on body image, especially on women. Some women are uncomfortable about how they see themselves simply because of what they saw on television or read in a magazine. Few have a problem accepting themselves the way they are and have issues perceiving themselves in a positive light. Even movies, music and other forms of popular media have a way of perceiving body images differently or in a way the most people do not agree with. For instance, body types of women are shown thinner and more toned. Men seem to be more muscular and attractive in many cases. These concepts try to paint the ideal man or woman, knowing in many cases this is not true.

With media having a profound effect on how body image is perceived, health problems and health effects are constantly explored. Our society faces challenges of what is acceptable versus what we know is not realistic. There are not enough messages that state people are fine just the way they are. Instead, you have to look a certain way in order to make a lot of money or be accepted by a specific group of people or company.