As educated college students, we are likely well aware of the pressures that females face regarding body image and the many forms that this can take. This is an important issue that needs to continue to draw attention and action. But do we know as much about male body image and the media portrayal faced by men on a daily basis? Male body dissatisfaction has grown in recent decades as media portrayals of the ideal male body have increased in muscle size and proportion.
One of the major differences from female body image is that males tend to be more concerned with the shape of their bodies rather than the weight. The emphasis tends to be highest on muscular shoulders, arms and chest, and of course, defined abdominals. Men who are involved in sports that require strict weight maintenance are at a higher risk for developing a negative body image. Some studies have also shown that gay men are at higher risk for body image dissatisfaction. However, this may be that more gay men would feel more comfortable seeking help for treating a body disorder.
Body image dissatisfaction in males can lead to a general obsession with weight-lifting, nutrition plans, fitness equipment, supplements and even steroid usage. The supplements are specifically a large problem area because they are not regulated by the FDA, the claims the companies make regarding muscle gain are not properly tested or proven before marketing.
Discussion Questions:
- What would you say to a male who had a negative body image from being especially thin?
- If you are someone who is attracted to males, can the skinniness of a guy be a turn-off? Why or why not?
- Does the ideal male body fluctuate depending on the social circle? Are there social groups in which the opposite image is the ideal?
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