According to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health at the University of Michigan, nearly two-thirds of parents say their children are insecure about some aspect of appearance. Also, one in five say they avoid some scenarios, like being in pictures, because they are so self-conscious.
Read more: Know the most common causes of insecurity and learn how to solve them
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Susan Woolford, co-director of the Mott Poll, said that children begin to form opinions about their bodies and appearance at an early age. If left unchecked, preoccupation with appearance and body can lead to diminished health mental and emotional health, as well as increase the risk of eating disorders, depression and low self esteem.
Study details
The nationally representative US report is based on 1,653 responses from parents of at least one child between the ages of 8 and 18 who were interviewed in April. Some of the most common causes of insecurity in these young people are based on the following aspects:
- Weight;
- Skin problems (eg acne);
- Hair.
Parents of teenagers are more likely to report that their children were insecure about their appearance than parents of children aged 8 to 12 years (73% of adolescents and 69% of adolescents compared to 57% of girls and 49% of boys).
According to Woolford, this is because as children age, they become more self-aware, more likely to compare themselves to their peers. In addition, they may be more influenced by media representations.
But what is to be done?
It is very common for doubts to arise at this time. How should we guide teenagers to start dealing with this situation? That's why we're going to leave below some suggestions on how to approach this situation.
Be a model of self love
If parents constantly criticize themselves or make negative comments about their appearance, they can expect their children to follow suit. So be aware of your behaviors and be a good example for your child.
embrace diversity
If you hear the young person comment on someone's body type or appearance, no matter who they are, tell them that people have shapes and sizes bodily different, as well as exhibiting different physical characteristics. Point out that none of them are bad or better, just different.
Teach them to critically evaluate the media
Children are surrounded by unrealistic ideals created by the media. Encourage your child to consciously criticize what they see on TV and on social media. Help him see how certain images have been “improved” with filters, for example.