Struggling with one’s body image is something we can all relate to. It’s something that is better dealt with when the right fundamentals are put in place as teens when we first notice changes. Ouiam El Hassani tells you how to help your teen have a healthy body image.
Picture day dread. Social media envy. Corridors and hallways anxieties. Welcome to the wild world of teen body image! As a parent, witnessing your teen navigate this often-challenging terrain can feel overwhelming. Fear not! This journey can be a collaborative effort and you can be a powerful ally in helping your teen build rock-solid confidence.
Teens today face a relentless barrage of unrealistic beauty standards. Social media acts as a funhouse mirror, reflecting distorted images of “perfection” through filtered photos and curated online personas. The constant comparison to these unattainable ideals can chip away at their self-esteem, creating a sense of inadequacy and insecurity. The desire to fit in adds another layer of complexity. Peer pressure can lead teens to believe in a narrow definition of beauty and teasing or bullying based on appearance can be a major confidence crusher. Then comes puberty which throws a wrench into everything. Rapid physical changes can feel confusing and overwhelming, especially when combined with societal expectations about what a “normal” body should look like.
Social media acts as a funhouse mirror, reflecting distorted images of “perfection” through filtered photos and curated online personas.
So, how can you spot red flags that your teen might be struggling? While some self-consciousness is a normal part of adolescence, be mindful of signs that might indicate a deeper issue. Is your teen constantly checking mirrors, weighing themselves daily, or fixated on negative self-talk about their body? Are they drastically changing their eating habits, skipping meals or exercising excessively in a way that seems unhealthy? Have they become less social, avoiding activities where their bodies are on display? Are they expressing feelings of isolation or depression?
The good news is, there are many ways you can empower your teen to conquer the confidence course of body image. Start by being a body positive champion. Teens are keen observers, picking up on how you talk about yourself. Avoid negative self-talk and focus on health and well-being, not just weight. Show them that you value your own body for its capabilities and what it allows you to do, not just how it looks.
Shift the focus to celebrate your teen’s achievements and strengths that go beyond appearance. Highlight their talents, skills and personality traits. Let them know you’re proud of them for winning the debate team competition, not just for the way they look in their new outfit. Puberty is a natural process, not a reason for shame. Talk openly about physical changes and answer questions honestly without judgment. Normalise these changes by discussing them as a normal part of growing up.
Help your teen see the beauty in diversity. Seek out media that showcases all body types and challenge unrealistic beauty standards by praising real, diverse representation. Expose them to movies, shows and magazines that feature characters of all shapes and sizes. Promote healthy eating habits and regular exercise for overall well-being, not just weight control. This will help them develop a positive relationship with food and movement. Focus on the importance of nourishing their bodies with healthy foods to fuel their activities and promote overall health, not just achieving a certain number on the scale.
The most important tip is to create a safe space for open communication. Listen actively without judgment and reassure your teen of your unwavering support. Let them know they can express their feelings and concerns freely. If they’re struggling with their body image, don’t dismiss their worries. Validate their feelings and encourage them to talk openly about what’s bothering them. If they’re hesitant to talk to you, encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor specialising in adolescent development. A therapist can provide them with a safe space to explore their feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Remember, this is a team effort. By fostering open communication, equipping your teen with self-acceptance, and cheering them on every step of the way, you can help them conquer the confidence course of body image and emerge with a healthy self-esteem that shines brighter than any filtered picture. They may still face challenges, but with your support, they’ll have the tools they need to navigate the complexities of body image and build a strong sense of self. This journey won’t be a sprint, but a marathon, and your presence as a supportive and understanding parent will make all the difference.
