Do Media Cause Individuals to Develop Negative Body Images?
In this article, there are two clear sides, which differ in opinion on the topic of whether or not the media causes individuals to develop a negative body image or not. Dworkin and Wachs, believe the media is highly responsible for negatively influencing society and the way they view themselves. One's identity and self worth has become attached to superficialities such as: maintaining a weight that is low in body fat, wearing name brand clothing, getting regular manicures/pedicures, and indulging in other forms of self pampering treatments. Each and every day countless forms of imagery reach into peoples cell phones, computers, televisions, minds, and psyches ultimately causing them to have self doubt and lowered self-esteem. With technology on a constant uproar it is hard to ignore the visual ads that surround us all each and every day.
Dworkin made an interesting statement in her article saying, "ads tell men and women that a healthy body is attainable if they buy the products and pamper themselves. Fat becomes something to be feared, and grooming practices and fashion are sold as imperatives". These concepts have been engrained in the average Americans mind since they struck puberty. Being desirable has everything to do with external appeal and nothing to do with one's mind or soul anymore. The media is responsible for feeding into people's emotions and vulnerabilities. It's as if they play with them and almost force them into buying products to help get closer to a never ending journey towards perfection.
As for the "no" argument it does not resonate with the same force that the "yes" article does. Levine and Murnen believe that the media is a limiting factor in determining people body image. They state instead, "a wide range of social, behavioral, and cultural issues over time" contribute to negative body images. Where this could easily be considered a valid point it does not even seem close to the strength of which the media demands. I personally agree strongly with the "yes" arguement...just look around...what people want is in your face at all times!
Dworkin made an interesting statement in her article saying, "ads tell men and women that a healthy body is attainable if they buy the products and pamper themselves. Fat becomes something to be feared, and grooming practices and fashion are sold as imperatives". These concepts have been engrained in the average Americans mind since they struck puberty. Being desirable has everything to do with external appeal and nothing to do with one's mind or soul anymore. The media is responsible for feeding into people's emotions and vulnerabilities. It's as if they play with them and almost force them into buying products to help get closer to a never ending journey towards perfection.
As for the "no" argument it does not resonate with the same force that the "yes" article does. Levine and Murnen believe that the media is a limiting factor in determining people body image. They state instead, "a wide range of social, behavioral, and cultural issues over time" contribute to negative body images. Where this could easily be considered a valid point it does not even seem close to the strength of which the media demands. I personally agree strongly with the "yes" arguement...just look around...what people want is in your face at all times!
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