Many of us, if not all of us, have struggled with body image at one point or another in our lives. Body image is not just what we see in the mirror, it is a complex blend of thoughts, emotions, perceptions, sensations, and behaviors. It is so important to understand it as it may affect many aspects of our lives, especially when we are in our childhood and teenager stages. Let us dive into exploring where body image begins and how to help raise our kids with healthy body image.
The Roots of Body Image
From a young age, we are often bombarded with messages about our bodies. From social media, ads, tv/movies, and messages we hear from our peers, community, and family. These messages are often more potent when we are younger as we are developing, growing, and learning about ourselves.
Children, with their developing brains, are especially susceptible to these influences, which can significantly impact their self-esteem and body image as they grow.
Factors That Impact Body Image
There are many factors that influence and impact the development of negative body image in kids. Here are some factors:
Family Influence: Children absorb comments and attitudes about body image from their parents or caregivers.
Media and Social Media: There are many messages promoted within media and social media, and diets are often promoted in media through ads, influencer accounts, etc.
Peer Groups: Friends and classmates may exert unnecessary pressure. Children may experience negative comments, bullying, and teasing about their bodies. Children are often trying to fit within their peer group so it may lead to body dissatisfaction and/or shame.
Puberty: As children’s bodies grow and change, it can lead to a source of stress and confusion.
Diet Culture: Diet culture promotes a certain body size that is “ideal”, and this may lead children to believe they can only be accepted if they are that size.
Fostering Healthy Body Image
If your child has experienced negative body image, there is hope moving forward to help them foster a healthy relationship with their body. First, it is important to have open conversations with them about their body and changes. I invite you to encourage them to talk openly about their feelings and thoughts.
Then, I encourage you to model positive behaviors. Be mindful of how you speak about your body and others’. Children pick up on a lot of what we say and do. Also, focus on function over appearance, which means celebrating what your children’ s bodies can do rather than how it looks.
Another way to foster healthy body image is by focusing on their personality, rather than their looks. For example, you could say, “Sally, I love how kind you are.” You can also promote self-compassion by teaching your children that everyone experiences discomfort with their bodies and it is ok to feel this way. Lastly, ensure your children are getting adequate and consistent nutrition. Promote regular meals that have a variety of nutrition. Ensure that food is also fun, spontaneous, and flexible in nature. Proper nutrition affects our brain chemicals and it helps us feel more stabilized in mood as well as it is a way to promote self-care.
Hope Moving Forward
Cultivating a healthy body image in children is a multi-faceted journey that involves open dialogue, education, and a shift from appearance to function. By understanding the components of body image and the factors that influence it, we can empower our children to view themselves and others with kindness and appreciation. I believe that you will be able to raise your children with healthy body image, and we are here at Anchored Counseling Co. cheering you on!
Compassionate Affirmation: “My body is amazing and it helps me learn, play, and grow every day.”
Additional Resource: How To Navigate Parenting and Body Image Concerns with Sarah Torti – In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson invite the insightful Sarah Torti to explore the complex and tender topic of parenting with a focus on body image. Broadcasting from Nashville, this episode delves into the nuances of creating a family culture that fosters positive body image, safety, and connection for our children. You can listen to the episode here.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
Owner + Director
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Co. to assist in this mission.
The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirmed, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life.
To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or contact us here.
