Grand Valley State University Women's Center

Body Image

Increasing numbers of people are struggling with their bodies and their self-esteem, trying to shape themselves into what they consider to be the ideal body image. The struggle with body image is not limited to young women; young men are also affected. Eating disorders are on the rise among young men. Regardless of gender, the diet industry has become a multi-billion dollar industry, and millions of men and women alike are becoming consumers of cosmetic surgery as it gains popularity in the mainstream culture.

The top 10 selections from Dr. Margo Maine's 20 Ways to Love Your Body outline healthier ways to look at body image:

  1. Think of your body as the vehicle to your dreams. Honor it. Respect it. Fuel it
  2. Create a list of all the things your body lets you do. Read it and add to it often
  3. Become aware of what your body can do each day. Remember it is the instrument of your life, not just an ornament
  4. Create a list of people you admire: people who have contributed to your life, your community, or the world. Consider whether their appearance was important to their success and accomplishments
  5. Walk with your head held high, supported by pride and confidence in yourself as a person
  6. Don't let your weight or shape keep you from activities that you enjoy
  7. Wear comfortable clothes that you like, that express your personal style, and that feel good to your body
  8. Count your blessings, not your blemishes
  9. Think about all the things you could accomplish with the time and energy you currently spend worrying about your body and appearance. Try one!
  10. Be your body's friend and supporter, not its enemy

Take the Body Image Quiz

Additional Resources:

Body Image and Women in Disabilities:  Baylor College of Medicine & The Body Project

Body Image and Men: Australian Psychological Society

Body Image/ Activism: About Face & NOW Foundation

Page last modified March 17, 2011