What is a typical body image?
Some children and nearly all adolescents worry about their physical appearance in some way. Body consciousness and its perception is significantly affected by physical changes that occur during adolescence, by peer relationships and acceptance, as well as by messages on social media about the ideal and preferred body. It is expected that sometimes, teenagers attempt to change their appearance through hair styling, makeup, clothing, and accessories quickly and with relative ease. Because of the many changes and influences on the perception of one's body, some level of body dissatisfaction is typical. However, extreme focus on physical appearance and excessive attempts to change it should be given attention to.
When should I be concerned about a child's body image?
Some children and adolescents have really unrealistic ideas of how they look. Those with negative body image perceptions may keep their thoughts about their appearance, and any attempts to make changes, a closely guarded secret. Others may talk about many things they do not like about themselves openly. Both are usually unhealthy.
Caregivers should be watchful for children and adolescents that seem to be overly fixated on their appearance. These children and adolescents may have an unrealistic body image, meaning that while others see a healthy person, they see themselves as entirely different people when they look in the mirror. Additionally, reassurance from family or friends that there is nothing wrong with their appearance may do little to change their thinking or what they see in the mirror.
Other concerning behaviors include:
- Use of nutritional supplements and anabolics.
- Excessive exercising (e.g., weight lifting).
- Persistent occupation with skin scars, hair and face features (e.g., excessive use of make-up, solarium).
- A feeling of unattractiveness.
- Repeatedly checking perceived defects in mirrors or cell photos of self.
- Low self-esteem, emotional instability, and problems in social interaction.
What can I do to help a child with body image problems?
Caregivers know their children best. If you are a caregiver, and you suspect that your child is thinking negatively about their appearance, there are a few things you may attempt:
- Be supportive. Let your child know what you have noticed. For example, if you see your child spending too much time looking themself in the mirror, you can tell them what you've noticed and ask them how they feel about it. Let your child know that you are there to help anyway you can.
- Talk to your child. Try to understand what they are experiencing by asking simple questions. Listen to how they feel about their body image taking their perspective into account, even if you don't agree with what they are saying.
- Without disregarding your child's worries about appearance, help them think about the fact that a healthy and functioning body is more important than anything. Even though looks are important and count for something, our bodies allow us to experience life regardless of their form or looks. Our legs allow us to walk and go to new places or have new adventures. Our arms allow us to hug the people we love. Our core helps us stand and stay up to do the things we like.
- Call your child's attention to other qualities they value they may have, such as their witty personality or achievements.
- Avoid speaking critically about their appearance. Sometimes caregivers also place a lot of value on body image, so it is really important to be careful to not trickle down personal concerns on their child.
- Avoid supporting or facilitating certain body interventions. It is not uncommon that adolescents experiencing problems with their body image ask for their caregivers help on extreme interventions that could make them feel better. Avoid supporting either financially and emotionally interventions that could aggravate your child's difficulties (e.g., visits to plastic surgeons).
If you have already tried some or most of these suggestions and the problems your child is facing persist, it may be time to seek out professional support.
Body image problems that are too frequent, intense, present in many different contexts, discrepant from those experienced by children the same age, and that negatively interfere with your child and family’s daily lives may indicate the possibility of Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
What kind of professional support can I seek out for help?
It is not unusual that some caregivers feel embarrassed, inadequate, or guilty if their child is struggling with body image problems. But, if you are concerned about your child, support and guidance are available now. Communicate concerns during and between visits with your child's doctor.
Pediatricians or family physicians can help to address initial concerns and refer to specialized professionals. Also, whenever possible, a consultation with a mental health professional may be helpful. These professionals also work with caregivers so that they know how to support their children outside of therapy sessions.
The public system provides services through the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Centers of Multidisciplinary Assessment, Counseling, and Support (KEDASY).
Where to find more information
Specific, detailed, and clinical information on Body Dysmorphic Disorder can be found at [clinical short guide at the program website].
If you want to know more about the closest available services for educational and public health systems for children and adolescent assistance across the country, go to our Services Mapping webpage here.
You can also find more information by pointing your phone camera at the QR code below or by clicking here.
