Body Image

Body image in kids vs adults

January 8, 2018

Self-Paced Course: Non-Diet Academy

FREE GUIDE: 10 Daily Habits THAT FOSTER  INTUITIVE EATING

You'll also love

learn more

A Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian (CEDRD) with a master's degree in dietetics & nutrition. My passion is helping you find peace with food - and within yourself.

Meet Katy

Ben-white-124388-unsplash
Ask an adult what they like about their body and you’ll likely get a response along these lines:
  • “Nothing.”
  • “I guess I don’t mind my hair/eyes/etc.” (Often a part of the body that we don’t judge on its fatness.  Also note the disqualifies of “I guess” and “I don’t mind.”)
  • (Nervous laughing) followed by “I’m not really sure…” and they’ll avoid answering the question.
Ask a child (elementary age or younger) what they like about their body and this is what you’ll hear:
  • “Everything!”
  • “It’s big and strong!”
  • “I love my legs/arms/belly!” (Any body part is appreciable for kids!)
Note the adult’s discomfort and distaste for their own body, while the child’s enthusiasm is unfiltered and without hesitation.
When between childhood and adulthood did this change?  And why?…
Can you act for one moment “as if” you were a child – what would you like about your body?

Leave a Reply