A young girl, aged 5, whose basic needs are met, experiences an uninhibited sense of self. Confidence and curiosity permeate her orientation to the world and her place in it. Her body is not a burden and her mind and spirit are united. Unfortunately, that confidence, positive body image, and positive sense of self can diminish as she grows up.
What are the factors that cause this perception of self to change over time? What images, words, laws, social norms, and experiences present barriers to maintaining a healthy sense of self? In this weeks Discussion, you explore connections between self-concept and health and well-being and how these connections reflect an awareness of and/or a need for social change.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Consider all that you have read of Ensler and Dove for social change themes related to womens health and well-being.
Review the V-Day website in this weeks Learning Resources. Consider its mission, the four core beliefs, and its long-term mission, particularly with regard to womens health and well-being.
What connections are possible between Enslers V-day (womens empowerment day) and the idea of the next generation depicted in Doves poem?
How do body awareness and self-concept relate to social change?
What progress has been made across generations with regard to womens health and well-being?
