Adolescents’ comfort with their body image often depends upon their greater culture. In Western societies, adolescents often feel pressure to maintain a certain ideal physique. There are many factors that influence how comfortable adolescents are with their body image; however, the media is frequently identified as one negative influence. Visit a local bookstore or library and scan the covers of popular magazines that specifically target male or female readers.
Who is on the cover of each magazine?
How would you rate the physical attractiveness of the models on each cover?
What type of food is portrayed on the cover?
On the covers of the magazine, what are the promised articles?
If food was on the cover, does the food realistically coincide with the content of the articles? (Note in many cases, the magazine cover will contain an image of a fattening food, yet promise articles such as “The Amazing, Guilt-Free Diet.”)
How might these magazines influence body image?
What differences can you observe in magazines that cater to men vs. women?
Do you think the media plays any role in the development of adolescent eating disorders?
