In this episode of Becoming Anchored, co-host and licensed therapist Laura Deneen is joined by licensed marriage and family therapist, Ragan Graves.
Together they explore how body image can impact adolescents in their developmental years.
Key Takeaways:
- Adolescents’ Brain and Body Image: Together we discuss how various changes, such as puberty, can affect adolescents’ body image. Ragan and Laura discuss how adolescents’ bodies developmentally change as they should and there can be an increase in distress due to societal pressure of being in an idealized body based on media portrayal. Laura emphasizes the importance of families having conversations around body changes.
- Underneath Body Image Surface: Ragan and Laura explore the idea that body image is not only about appearance. Ragan discusses underneath the surface of body image needs, there are needs such as being accepted, known, and loved. Laura discusses the way in which adolescents may seek out these needs through changing their bodies.
- Supporting Adolescents With Their Body Image: Laura discusses the importance of psychoeducation for parents and doing their own work around their body image. Ragan encourages parents to listen and empathize with their children, rather than being dismissive of their body image concerns. Together we discuss being mindful of social media consumption and exploring how social media impacts adolescents’ body image. Finally, we discuss helping adolescents set appropriate boundaries in regards to their body image.
This episode provides insight into navigating body image during the adolescent years and providing practical and helpful tools to help your child through this stage of life.
Homework: Write a letter to a younger version of yourself about the cost of pursuing an ideal body image that we as a society have defined as the ideal appearance. Stand in front of a mirror and write down things you like about yourself.
Affirmation: “ I will give myself compassion as my body goes through growth.”
Friend, we are passionate about offering more support beyond the insights and advice in this podcast.
Becoming Anchored Co. is rooted in the belief that hope is fundamental to our human experience. The body image program + resources were created to support you in accessing hope and in shifting your relationship with your body. Our commitment is to authenticity, living in harmony with our values, and embracing the incredible resilience and adaptability that define the human spirit. On this podcast, you will find topics covering topics related to body image and embodiment. We are here to support you as you navigate towards peace, kindness, tenderness, and curiosity with your body.
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⚓Navigating Friendships as an Adult Woman: Gain the tools to enhance communication, trust, and genuine connection in this educational wellness course. This isn’t just theory; it’s the very foundation Laura used to transform her own relationships, bringing more depth and satisfaction in her own life.
⚓Recovering People Pleaser: This evidence-based mini course will teach you how to advocate for yourself, so you can have healthy relationships and connection with others. You will learn how to advocate for yourself and access your innate self-worth.
⚓Pivoting From Perfectionism: This compassionate course will show you that you do not have to be perfect in order to be loved and will give you practical tools to live authentically. This course provides practical insights and tools for tackling perfectionism.
We have also curated a selection of thoughtfully designed products to help you stay anchored, that you can wear on your path to discovery and growth.
Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, our team located in Brentwood, TN offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. If you are not located in the greater Nashville area, we gently encourage you to find a licensed therapist local to you.
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