How Does A Distorted Body Image Form?
By: Alice Langholt Some people develop a distorted body image when their self-perception significantly differs from reality. People tend to be self critical by nature, having a hard time seeing themselves as they are. We compare ourselves to others, particularly the media’s portrayal of normal, which is, in itself, a distorted vision of a healthy body image. Why is it important to have a positive body image? A negative body image can be detrimental to a person’s health, and it can cause her to develop eating disorders, depression and low self-esteem. Self image is naturally in the forefront during the teenage years, when body development is occurring, alongside fluctuating hormone levels. Weight gain is typically a part of this process and can be viewed with anxiety by teen girls in particular. All cultures have their own definitions of normal when it comes to body shape, weight and proportions. People have a natural tendency to compare themselves to this standard, and they may feel an
