Women and body image: An ongoing issue

 

When it comes to body image, the media may have a big impact on how and what one thinks of how people should look.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, body image is defined as “a subjective picture of one’s own physical appearance established both by self-observation and by noting the reactions of others.”

One’s body image can vary along with their confidence or mood at the time being. Tali Rodriguez, receptionist at Tallahassee female gym Queen of Hearts Fitness, shares her confidence.

“I think everyone has something they would like to change about themselves. I make the decision to choose to notice what I like about myself, and I often tell myself, ‘I like this and this, and that I’ll work on later,’” said Rodriguez.

According to goodtherapy.org, health problems can arise for those with body image issues. Health issues can include overeating, starving oneself, binge eating and purging, resulting in bigger problems such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia.

Ana Williams, a Planet Fitness regular, shared her experiences.

“In the world we live in today, people judge by looks. We have to make sure we fit a certain mold but that’s how it is in our society unfortunately,” said Williams.

Many people may feel pressure to measure up to a certain social and cultural idea of beauty, which often leads to the birth of body image issues. Even people in one’s life can affect how one may feel about their body image with both positive and negative comments.

“Growing up I always felt like I was too skinny, especially growing up in the African American community and being Haitian. People would always tell me I needed a burger. I think people’s opinions definitely affected my own opinion of my body even as an adult today,” FSU senior healthcare student Christina St. Ilma said.

According to dosomething.org, 58 percent of college-aged females feel pressured to be a certain weight, and 95 percent of people with eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25.

It is important to remember that healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. For more information concerning body image, contact your local doctor or therapist.