Body Shaming

What Does it Mean to Body Shame?

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   The planet Earth is filled with various forms of life that are all unique in appearance. One of the most unique and diverse species on this planet is mankind. Every human body is made up of the same elements with the same organs, bone structures, nerves, etc. However, every human being has different external features like skin color, height, weight, and many more unique characteristics. These characteristics definitely do not define us but they are what sets us apart from one another. If we are all clearly nonidentical to one another, why do we feel the need to judge others who don't look like us? Why do we often attack someones physical appearance when we are angry, confused, or sad? The term body shaming is defined as judging or making degrading comments about someone's appearance. It is a form of bullying that everyone contributes to, even if we do not realize it.

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  To begin, this type of verbal and emotional abuse has always been an issue that has affected many. According to a recent report, about 63 percent of females and 31 percent of males have experienced body shaming very early on by their own mothers. The report then goes on to explain how a majority of body shaming comments are often made by those we are close to. Parents and other family members may not believe what they are telling their children is harmful but in actuality, it can lead to serious problems like body image issues and low self esteem. In fact, another study suggests that 1 in 3 kids have felt like they were being bullied by their parents because of comments that were made about their appearance.  Most body shaming comments are made inside homes and if parents taught their kids self-love instead of pointing out their flaws, this problem would go down dramatically.

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  Secondly, body shaming comments are not only just about weight and height, they can also be about a numerous amount of other topics. Body shaming comments can also target people who don't wear makeup, wear "too much" makeup, girls with body hair, people who are "too skinny", etc. Both men and women in today's society are expected to have a perfect appearance and have no flaws. However, not everyone's primary focus in life is to be perfect. Society's standards for both men and women are completely unreasonable and teaches people to hate themselves. 

In summary, the term body shaming is defined as judging or making degrading comments about someone's appearance. This form of bullying can cause a lot of effects on people even if we don't fully realize it. Words can be so powerful and people need to be more careful on what they say to those around them. Everyone is beautiful in their own way and everyone has a lot to offer to the world.