Media & Teens

A person's perception of how their body looks forms their body image. This perception is usually based on self-observation and the reactions of others. The mind takes the information coming in from the eyes and combines it will all your past experiences to create the image that you perceive. A person with a poor body image will perceive his or her own body as being, while a person with a good body image will see him or herself as attractive to others. Body image is most strongly affected during puberty.

Some teens struggle with their self-esteem when they begin puberty because the body goes through many changes. These changes, combined with a natural desire to feel accepted, mean it can be tempting for people to compare themselves to others. They may compare themselves to the people around them or to actors and celebrities they see on TV, in movies, or in magazines.

In American culture, there is a lot of emphasis placed on body weight, size, and appearance. For example, being thin and/or muscular is associated with being "hard-working, successful, popular, beautiful, strong, and self-disciplined." On the other hand, being "fat" is associated with being "lazy, ignorant, hated, ugly, weak, and lacking will-power." These stereotypes are prevalent in our society; and they are reinforced by the media, our family and friends, and even well-respected health professionals.

Extreme Makeover is a television show from ABC in which individuals volunteer to receive an extensive makeover. The show portrays ordinary men and women participants "before" the big change and details the feature "flaws" that need fixing. Cameras follow each person through the various plastic surgery, exercise regimes, hairdressing and change of wardrobe required for a new and improved life. In the end the participant's duly shocked and thrilled friends and family gather to witness the big "after" reveal. As with most reality-based television programs, Extreme Makeover does not actually reflect the reality of today's culture. This