“Body image” - these two words seem simple enough, right? It’s commonly believed to relate to how we view our bodies. However, body image consists of much more than that; in fact, body image consists of the four following aspects:
1. Perceptual - how you see yourself
The way that we view our bodies can often be a misrepresentation of what our bodies actually look like, especially since we may naturally be harder on ourselves. We get frustrated when we feel like we haven’t attained an unrealistically high standard, but body dissatisfaction can arise from several environmental factors. Friends and family members can perpetuate unrealistic body standards without even knowing it. There are also many public figures that showcase misleading body standards as a part of their job. But it is important to remember that those same peers and celebrities are people just like us! They too are just as susceptible to altering their body perception because of unattainable standards that have been stigmatized. Public figures are forced to match this idea of perfection whether through photo editing, cosmetic surgery, or extreme diets as they are under consistent criticism and are constantly watched. We encourage you to become aware of the external influences that are taking a role in how you view your body! Is it media, family, friends, or something more?
2. Affective - how you feel about your appearance
If we view our bodies in a negative light, this may lead to feelings of sadness, disappointment, anger, jealousy towards others, etc. Such emotions can lead to poor mental health and low self-esteem, so it is encouraged to do things that allow us to accept our bodies. Self-acceptance can be achieved by adopting a different mindset or even engaging in physical activity targeted towards overall improved health, rather than weight loss. These actions can make you feel proactive in handling your emotions and boost your confidence. Also, by acknowledging all the amazing things that our bodies do for us to keep us healthy and alive, we can be more appreciative of our natural bodies and therefore feel more content.
3. Cognitive - what you think and believe about your body
Our cognitive schemas have a really strong impact on us, as they direct our emotional and physical responses. So, negative beliefs about one’s body image can cause an individual to justify and engage in unhealthy behavior, such as excessively exercising, restrictive dieting, developing eating disorders, etc. Making daily efforts to embrace your body through affirmative positive messages, wearing something that makes you feel confident, or writing a few things down that you like about your body (doesn’t have to be physical!) are some ways that you can redirect your thoughts into more positive beliefs. Acknowledge the negative feelings but do not hold on to them so you can learn to redirect negative thoughts.
4. Behavioral - what you do in response to your body image
Body image can also be conveyed through behavioral actions. For example, if you look through magazines or social media and often compare yourself to unrealistic and photoshopped images, this can be an opportunity for behavioral change. You can either re-shift your mindset to stop comparing (e.g., “her body is beautiful in its own way and so is mine because everyone’s body is different”), or you can limit the amount of time spent looking at those images as you are still working on your own body image and trying not to immerse yourself in these unrealistic ideals.
Standards around body image are always changing to fit the notion of “perfection.” However, perfection is simply a social construct based on subjective opinion. Therefore, the “perfect” body is unattainable since one cannot please everyone’s different preferences. Being skinny or having an hourglass figure does not indicate health. Remember that bodies are genetically built different, so health can come in many different shapes and sizes! The main message here is that positive body image goes a long way when you are aware of the four dynamic factors at play, and realize that you can take full control of how you can come to love your body. You’ve been through a lot and your body has helped carry you through them. Learn to love you for you, as that’s what matters most.
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On-campus Resources:
University Counseling Center: (607) 777-2772 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday
Binghamton University Fitness Center Programs: https://www.binghamton.edu/campus-recreation/about/index.html
Registered Dietitians:
Alexa Schmidt
Room 21, West Gym
(607) 777-2716
Julie Lee
Rockefeller Center 265
(607) 777-5413
Off-campus Resources:
Michele L. Moelder, RDN
Health Beat
214 Main St
Johnson City, NY 13790
(607) 798-1630
Nutrition clinic (LGBTQ friendly and women-led):
Balance: Food and Nutrition
35 Riverside Dr, Binghamton, NY 13905
(304) 377-9357
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About the Author: Kelly Huynh
I am a Junior studying Psychology on the pre-PA track. I joined REACH because I believe the broad range of topics that we cover in our program are valuable to college students, and I’d like to pass that information along as a peer educator. I think these messages can sometimes be more receptive to students when their fellow peers are spreading them. As you can see with my involvement in psychology and REACH, I enjoy learning about a little bit of everything! I appreciate being able to help others with the knowledge I gain and that is why I am pursuing the profession of a PA!