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.”
