The Issue and Controversy of Body Image and Health

Does the media and popular culture directly influence the way women feel their bodies need to look like?
This question is very controversial and has an impact on every woman in the United States. There is a constant bombardment of advertisements, television shows and movies that show women to look a certain way. Often this body type showcased is due to the model or actress having many people around her such as trainers and nutritionists to ensure she maintains a certain body type. However these women are still prevalent in media and they may influence the common woman thoughts and feelings about how her own body should look to varying degrees.

Eating disorders is a big issue concerning Body and Health. Disorders such as Anorexia and Bulimia, just to name a few, are usually centered on a distorted perception of oneself. These are disorders that at first are body image issues, but eventually, if not stopped or intervened can lead to serious health risk, and in extreme cases even death. These disorders in particular are just some examples of how body image issues can in fact lead to health risks, but it also shows how powerful body image is. (Posted by: Keith & Bryan)