Building a positive body image
We had a great conversation in one of my classes today about body image. We focused on what parents and other caring adults can do to help a child build a healthy body image. Our top tips:
1. Model body positive behavior toward yourself and others. Instead of talking about how bodies look, focus on what they can do. For example, “That girl runs really fast!” Rather than, “Wow, look at those flat abs.”
2. Focus on a child’s strengths and gifts instead of their looks. Who are they as a person? Are they bright, creative, caring, etc? Talk about those things!
3. Avoid equating looks with worth.
What other tips do you have?
Podcast Gender and Media Talk
Dr. Jennifer W. Shewmaker » Gender and Media Talk
Gender and media podcast for everyday life, featuring interviews with guests ranging from researchers to practitioners in the field. Hosted by Jennifer Shewmaker.
Gender and Media Talk podcasts focus on hot topics and cutting edge research in the areas of gender and media.
Dr. Jennifer W. Shewmaker 