Yvonne Nyatich English 1111-70 Prof. Heidi VanDixhorn Rough Draft Due: 2-3-2017 How the media affects our body image Many people believe that when the media displays different products as in cosmetics, fashion, and health, the purpose is to show the importance of human expression with a different meaning each to their own. Although I sympathize with their point of view, I am ultimately concerned about the media and the affects that it has on young adolescents. Therefore we must cultivate ways to teach young children about the damages that often results from their own insecurities with their own body, which causes them to go through stages of depression and low self-esteem that significantly lead them to incorporate unsafe eating habits to live up to the …show more content…
It then progresses to comparing themselves with others on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram; as well as making comparisons with alluring models and fitness gurus on television. As parents the ultimate goal is to raise children who feel good about themselves so that they aren’t bombarded by the media and the vicious lies it conveys. Even though it seems hard it can be done. For example, Author Rebecca Scritchfield has written a book called “Body Kindness” which has tips and techniques for parents to use when they are with their children. Scritchfield is certain that engaging children in activities such as culinary and spring-cleaning intertwined with self-love and giving to others who are in need helps change children’s attitude for the better as their self-confidence grows. These tactics are successful because they empower children to first-hand experience self-love in a fun and compassionate way (Scritchfield). Learning usually begins at a young age with children. So as parents teach them right from wrong, it is also important for teachers to play an active role in teaching youngsters the ins and outs of the media. British writer Mary Blackman strongly amplifies the