Chapter 11, Problem 1Q

Summary Introduction

Introduction

Every culture has its own beliefs, opinions, traditions, and set of values, ; which are commonly shared among its members. Some values such as kindness and unity might be helpful and useful. However, some beliefs held by a culture may prove to have detrimental effects on its members. Many eating disorders and body image issues arise due to the presence of certain set of beliefs held by people in the Western culture.

Explanation of Solution

Suggested response

Eating disorders and preoccupation with one's appearance begins during the adolescent period because one important necessity for young people, especially girls, is to look attractive and appealing. However, young girls are being compelled to want to look a certain way because the society and culture associates beauty with certain standards which are unrealistic and misleading. A child does not wish to be judged, rejected and disliked by the people around them. Therefore, they do whatever is appropriate according to the cultural norms

In the western society, there seems to be a certain level of obsession with how one looks, which is not only limited to the weight of a person; it may also be about a certain hairstyle or a fashion fad. These continuously changing trends seem to benefit the market and businesses. However, the changing trends and preoccupation with a specific perfect body type is proving to be detrimental to the physical and psychological well-being of adolescents. Trying to attain these unrealistic standards of beauty and attractiveness, sometimes, cause young people to engage in abnormal eating behaviors and may also lead to body-image issues.