Introduction
This paper is aimed finding the solutions to such a problem as body image blues. This term can be defined as the extreme dissatisfaction with ones physical appearance (Rodriguez, 2010, p. 9). In some cases, individuals can have a distorted perception of their body. To a great extent, this phenomenon can be explained by the idealized images that are imposed by popular culture.
This issue should not be overlooked because it affects a great number of people. In particular, one can mention that from 30 to 56 percent of middle-aged women are can be dissatisfied with their physical appearance (Marshall, Lengyel, & Utioh, 2012, p. 243). Furthermore, body image blues can be associated with depression and other mood disorders. This is why this problem should not be overlooked.
Background
It is important to mention that the given problem has been addressed several times. There have been a number of researches concerning beauty standards, their change over time and people’s perception of self in relation to the established standards of male/female beauty.
Grogan (2007) claims that the researches on the issue started in 1980; according to the author, PsychINFO database contains a number of citations concerning body dissatisfactions since 1970 (“from 726 in the 1970s, to 1,428 in the 1980s, to 2,477 in the 1990s” (Grogan, 2007, p. 1)).
Hence, it can be considered that the problem has finally reached its peak and, therefore, needs to be solved. Defined as dissatisfaction with one’s deviations from the established beauty standards in a specific society, body image blues is worth careful consideration.
Solutions
It is possible to provide several recommendations that can be used for addressing this problem. First of all, people, who struggle with this problem, should accept their body as a given (Daften, 2010). In particular, many aspects of a person’s physical appearance are not dependent on his/her lifestyle (Rodriguez, 2010, p. 9). For instance, one can mention the shape of one’s nose, skin color, freckles, and so forth. This approach to this problem is important because it enables a person to forget about the guilt that they experience for the alleged defects of their body.
Secondly, one should remember that in many cases other people do not pay much attention to the so-called flaws of their physical appearance (Leone, 2007, p. 164). In many cases, they do not detect these defects. This strategy is important because in this way, a person can understand that his/her body is not a subject of someone else’s scrutiny.
More importantly, this person can see that other people can be attracted to his/her physical appearance. This strategy is beneficial since it helps people take a less critical view on their body image. This is one of the main aspects that should not be overlooked by people who struggle with body image blues.
The third recommendation is that these people should be more aware about the stereotypes that are imposed by popular culture. For example, these individuals should learn more about the images that are displayed by the popular media (Grogan, 2007). In most cases, they set certain standards that every person has to meet (Kindes, 2006, p. 64).
Provided that everyone conforms to these standards, people may become nearly identical. This step is important because a person will become more resistant to the influence of media (Moe, 1999). Additionally, people will be able to appreciate the uniqueness of their own physical appearance. These are the main benefits that can be achieved with the help of this strategy.
Conclusion
On the whole, these suggestions are important because they can help people avoid many psychological problems. These individuals will not have to struggle with such problems as low self-esteem, insecurity, or even depression. Additionally, they will be able to appreciate their physical appearance.
Certainly, people should pay much attention to their lifestyle, especially their eating habits. However, very often, the obsession with body image leads to many detrimental effects that can impair the mental health of many people. The strategies described in this essay can of be great help to both males and females.
Reference List
Daften, A. (2010). When Baby Brings the Blues: Solutions for Postpartum Depression. New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Grogan, S. (2007). Body Image: Understanding Body Dissatisfaction in Men, Women and Children. London: Routledge.
Leone, J. (2007). Predictors of Body Image Dissatisfaction Among Selected Adolescent Males. New York: Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.
Kindes, M. (2006). Body image: new research. Boston: Nova Publishers.
Marshall, C., Lengyel, C., & Utioh, A. (2012). Body dissatisfaction among middle-aged and older women. Canadian Journal Of Dietetic Practice And Research: A Publication Of Dietitians Of Canada 73(2), 241-247.
Moe, B. (1999). Understanding the Causes of a Negative Body Image. London: The Rosen Publishing Group.
Rodriguez, L. (2010). Body Image Blues. Personal Excellence, 15(10), 9-10.