Medias Influence on Body Image Essay example - 1550 Words

1.0 Introduction The media have been criticized for portraying the thin women as â€Å"ideal† .This research plans to look at the effects of media on the body image of women. This cumulates the findings of empirical studies that observe the effects of media on body image. This study will also look at the different social comparison theories that relate media and body image. It will also investigate the different sources of media that have an impact on the body image of women. It also scopes to find out which sources have a greater consequence than the others. Furthermore it also researches about how the women could be prevented from comparing their body image from that of the models and actresses portrayed in the media. 2.0 Literature†¦show more content†¦Whereas in the recent years slim women are more valued according to Jennifer A cited in O’dea. body image discourages one from participating in physical activities. Physical activities could be participating in sports where on e has a feeling of being â€Å"too fat† or feeling that one has to achieve a certain look before they can participate (Paxton , 2002, P. 4). 2.1 Theory Researchers have utilized various theoretical findings for examining the relationship between media and body image (Holmstrom, 2004 ). Here is the review of the theories that has been used by the researchers in the area. The most common of these theories is Festinger’s social comparison theory (1954, P. 120) where he argues that people assess themselves through comparison with others and more likely to compare themselves to those who are similar to them and who are attractive. This theory is aimed to encourage one to improve if she finds herself lacking those qualities. On the other side researchers who use social comparison theory claim such comparisons could have probable negative consequences. For example Bandura’s social cognitive theory (1994, P. 80) emphasizes that people study the behaviors of attractive others. This theory suggests that young women find slim models attractive and thus try to follow their routine through dieting which ultimately leads them to eating disorders. The last theory is the Gerbner’s cultivation theory which suggests that the more a person isShow MoreRelated The Medias Influence on Body Image Essay4394 Words   |  18 Pagesby which females are taught from childhood to judge the worth of their own bodies (Stephens Hill, 1994). To explore the broader context of this controversial issue, this paper draws upon several aspects influencing women?s body image. First, this paper examines the concept of body image and the problems associated with chronic dieting and the diet indus try. Next, is an exploration of the prevalence and the source of body dissatisfaction in American females. 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