Review of Body Image and Body Image Disturbance Essay

An Analytical Review of Body Image and Body Image Disturbance

Throughout life, but particularly in adolescence, there are numerous stressors placed on individuals. These stressors include family, friends and other societal pressures. In my experience, one major stressor during my adolescence was how I fit in amongst my peers in terms of my appearance. Body image, defined by Webster’s Dictionary as cited in Rhoten (2016, p. 1002), is “a subjective picture of one’s own physical appearance established both by self-observation and by noting the reactions of others”. On the other hand, body image disturbance can be defined as “severe emotional distress experienced by someone with a negative body image, which impairs their daily psychosocial functioning” (Cash, Phillips, Santos, & Hrabosky, 2004 as cited in Charles & Mclean 2017, p. 784). The concept of body image and body image disturbance has been well researched and there are a number of potential solutions for individuals facing issues with their body image issues. I have personal experience with body image disturbance and was able to use certain interventions to ameliorate my perception of self and lead a healthier lifestyle. Review of Body Image and Body Image Disturbance Essay