INTRODUCTION – THE INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF MEDIA AND BODY IMAGE
Media perception and body image are like a complex dance, with each partner impacting the other’s moves. Our perceptions of our physical selves are intricately tied to the images and messages we consume through various media channels. Unravelling this relationship is crucial for understanding how it impacts self-esteem and overall mental wellbeing.
TRADITIONAL MEDIA – SETTING UNREALISTIC STANDARDS
For decades, traditional forms of media such as television, magazines, and advertising have set the tone for what society considers ‘beautiful’ or ‘ideal.’ Often, these portrayals turn on the unrealistic—think size-zero models and airbrushed celebrities. Such standards not only spread harmful beauty norms but also cause chaos in an individual’s body image and self-esteem.
SOCIAL MEDIA – A NEW PLAYGROUND
The advent of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat has changed the game. They provide a constant stream of thoroughly presentable images that showcase seemingly ‘perfect’ lives and bodies. The scroll-and-compare habit has been linked to increased feelings of body dissatisfaction, thereby contributing to a distorted sense of body image.
FILTERS AND PHOTOSHOP – DISTORTING REALITY
Media perception and positive body cannot be ignored. Filters and photo-editing tools can radically alter one’s appearance, offering a highly unrealistic vision of human bodies. This distorted reality creates a gap between what we see online and what we see in the mirror, increasing body dissatisfaction and poor self-esteem.
THE VULNERABLE – TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS
Among the most susceptible to the media’s influence on positive body are teenagers and young adults. Their frequent interaction with media, combined with the internalisation of societal standards, can promote unrealistic body expectations. Media perception creates a risk factor for developing negative body image perceptions that may lead to more severe mental wellbeing issues.
THE GENDER DIVIDE – IT AFFECTS MEN TOO
Contrary to popular belief, media perception and positive body concerns are not exclusive to women. Men are increasingly falling prey to the media’s narrow of masculinity—muscular physiques, height, and leanness. These unrealistic expectations are causing body dissatisfaction among men, leading to stress and, in extreme cases, mental wellbeing disorders.
COUNTERING MEDIA INFLUENCE – MEDIA LITERACY
Understanding the artificial nature of many media portrayals is crucial in justifying their impact on body image. Media literacy involves the development of critical thinking skills, helping individuals to separate reality from edited, presentable fiction.
- Critical Thinking: Question the credibility and motive behind media perception and body image.
- Curate Feeds: Choose social media accounts that offer a more balanced and realistic portrayal of human bodies.
THE POWER OF REPRESENTATION – DIVERSE BODIES
A shift towards embracing diversity in media portrayals can be both empowering and liberating. More brands are beginning to include diverse body types, races, and ethnicities, providing a fuller picture of human beauty. This inclusivity can significantly lessen the detrimental impact of media on body image.
WHEN MEDIA INFLUENCE BECOMES HARMFUL – SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
When media perception and positive body induced body dissatisfaction spirals into severe conditions like eating disorders, depression, or extreme anxiety, professional intervention becomes necessary. Therapists and psychologists can provide tailored coping strategies to deal with these complex emotional issues.
CONCLUSION
Understanding how media perception affects body image is an integral aspect of modern mental wellbeing. While the media landscape may not change overnight, equipping ourselves with the tools and knowledge to engage with it critically can protect our mental and emotional wellbeing.