“It’s time we shift from… self-judgment to radical self-love… shame to radiant self-expression… chasing an ideal to celebrating what’s right here and now… what we weigh to how we live.” ~Carmen Cool.
Have you heard of the term ‘Body Shaming’? It is when someone makes derogatory statements about another person’s appearance based what they believe are ‘flaws’. Often it connotes that a person’s unique size, shape or color is too different to be accepted by society; and thus must be changed. Body shaming is a terrible trend resulting from the unrealistic beauty standards portrayed by mass media in a male-dominant society. These unhealthy expectations and definitions of beauty are brainwashing young minds; not to mention damaging their self-worth. Eating disorders, self-harm, self-esteem issues, suicide, addiction etc. are few of the harmful consequences that body-shaming has on it victims.
For the dear parents who are reading this, if your child is facing a bully who is mocking your child’s appearance, don’t feel discouraged! It may be disheartening to see your child, whom you consider precious and beautiful, feeling embarrassed about themselves. But, you can make a difference today by taking action:
Educate your child: Help your child to understand that they may come across people who say many mean words about their looks but those mean words have no meaning. Create awareness about how they have the power to disarm bullies by not reacting to their threats. This awareness will empower your child and boost their self-confidence
Affirm your child: Children are at a vulnerable stage where they are still developing their sense of identity. Extending positive words of affirmation about their strengths can be a powerful way of preventing self-esteem issues.
Empower your child: It is difficult to raise confident and happy children in a society which can nullify their worth and tell them they aren’t good enough. But you can help them use their judgement to discern whether they want to listen to bullies or not. Empower your child to embrace their unique traits. A strong sense of self-acceptance is neccessary to overpower the negativity.
Use these opportunities as learning moments to build resilience in your child! Another way you can do this is by enrolling your child for our Body-positivity group therapy. At our five day Group Therapy program, your child can enjoy a supportive community of friends, and learn practical ways to celebrate themselves in an era of body-shaming.
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