I don't disagree with anything you say, but it is a complex issue because body positivity is a reaction to genuine cruelty and even, and I know this is an extraordinarily strong word but I think it's accurate, persecution experienced by many of our students based on weight. (This is true of boys as well as girls, incidentally. The number of boys with eating disorders and other body image related mental health issues is still fewer than among girls, but catching up quickly in both North America and Australia. )
As someone who struggles with both weight and body dysmorphia (and am currently celebrating having lost >20 pounds in 2021!), I can attest that it can be very difficult to achieve and maintain a damaging both physical and mental health in the process. Schools have a crucial responsibility sources of health education and as centers of bullying to get the balance right. I'm not sure any researchers or practitioners have found it yet.
I really appreciate you sharing your story and I’m sorry to hear this has been an issue for you.
It would be interesting to know what actually happens in schools. As you say, we haven’t hit on the right balance yet. I know that PE departments teach about body health but beyond that, I don’t think there is agreement on a coordinated approach.
You can probably see that my solution (body irrelevance) is oversimplified and I think that it’s more widespread and problematic for women than men, with a predatory diet industry and all forms of body fetishism of women’s bodies by other women. I also know body dysmorphia is rising in boys.
But perhaps I should interview an expert in a future post about this important issue.
You’ve given me a great idea for giving this greater attention, Gary.
I don't disagree with anything you say, but it is a complex issue because body positivity is a reaction to genuine cruelty and even, and I know this is an extraordinarily strong word but I think it's accurate, persecution experienced by many of our students based on weight. (This is true of boys as well as girls, incidentally. The number of boys with eating disorders and other body image related mental health issues is still fewer than among girls, but catching up quickly in both North America and Australia. )
As someone who struggles with both weight and body dysmorphia (and am currently celebrating having lost >20 pounds in 2021!), I can attest that it can be very difficult to achieve and maintain a damaging both physical and mental health in the process. Schools have a crucial responsibility sources of health education and as centers of bullying to get the balance right. I'm not sure any researchers or practitioners have found it yet.
I really appreciate you sharing your story and I’m sorry to hear this has been an issue for you.
It would be interesting to know what actually happens in schools. As you say, we haven’t hit on the right balance yet. I know that PE departments teach about body health but beyond that, I don’t think there is agreement on a coordinated approach.
You can probably see that my solution (body irrelevance) is oversimplified and I think that it’s more widespread and problematic for women than men, with a predatory diet industry and all forms of body fetishism of women’s bodies by other women. I also know body dysmorphia is rising in boys.
But perhaps I should interview an expert in a future post about this important issue.
You’ve given me a great idea for giving this greater attention, Gary.
Thanks for commenting.