Body Image Dissatisfaction
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广告在我们生活中的利与弊英语作文Advertising has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing our decisions, shaping our perceptions, and playing a significant role in the economic landscape. As with any powerful tool, advertising comes with both advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to understand the impact it has on our lives.One of the primary benefits of advertising is its ability to inform consumers about products and services. Effective advertising can educate the public about new innovations, technological advancements, and the availability of goods and services that may improve their quality of life. This can lead to increased awareness and informed decision-making, allowing consumers to make more informed choices.Moreover, advertising can be a driving force behind economic growth and development. It helps businesses reach a wider audience, promote their offerings, and ultimately generate revenue. This, in turn, can lead to job creation, investment, and the expansion of industries, ultimately contributing to the overall prosperity of a society.Advertising also plays a crucial role in supporting the media industry. Many media outlets, such as newspapers, television, and radio, rely on advertising revenue to fund their operations and provide content to the public. Without this revenue stream, the availability and diversity of media options could be significantly reduced, potentially limiting access to information and entertainment.However, the influence of advertising is not without its drawbacks. One of the primary concerns is the potential for manipulation and the creation of unrealistic expectations. Advertisers often use persuasive techniques, such as appealing to emotions or using idealized images, to influence consumer behavior. This can lead to the development of unrealistic standards and the promotion of consumerism, potentially contributing to issues such as body image dissatisfaction, materialism, and the depletion of natural resources.Another concern is the impact of advertising on vulnerable populations, particularly children and adolescents. Exposure to advertisements can influence their values, preferences, and purchasing habits, potentially leading to unhealthy behaviors or the prioritization of material possessions over more meaningful aspects of life.Furthermore, the proliferation of advertising can contribute to information overload, making it challenging for consumers tonavigate the vast array of options and make informed decisions. The sheer volume of advertising messages can also lead to desensitization, reducing the effectiveness of individual campaigns and potentially contributing to a cluttered and overwhelming media landscape.It is also important to consider the ethical implications of certain advertising practices, such as the use of misleading claims, the exploitation of personal data, or the promotion of harmful products. These practices can erode consumer trust and undermine the integrity of the advertising industry, ultimately undermining its potential to serve as a valuable tool for businesses and consumers alike.In conclusion, the role of advertising in our lives is multifaceted, with both advantages and disadvantages. While it can inform, educate, and support economic growth, it also carries the potential for manipulation, the creation of unrealistic expectations, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. As consumers and as a society, it is crucial that we approach advertising with a critical eye, recognizing its influence and striving to harness its potential while mitigating its negative impacts. By striking a balance and promoting ethical and responsible advertising practices, we can ensure that the benefits of advertising outweigh its drawbacks, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of our lives.。
身材焦虑英语作文IntroductionIn today’s society, many people are facing body image issues and struggling with body dissatisfaction, commonly known as “body dysmorphia.” This essay aims to explore the causes and consequences of body image concerns and provide some practical solutions to overcome this issue.Body Image ConcernsBody image concerns refer to the negative perception and dissatisfaction individuals feel towards their physical appearance. These concerns often result in feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety. Many factors contribute to the development of body image concerns, including societal pressures, media influence, and personal experiences.Societal PressuresSociety often places an immense emphasis on physical beauty and a specific body ideal. This unrealistic expectation can lead individuals to compare themselves to others and feel dissatisfied with their own bodies. For example, advertisements and social media platforms frequently promote images of flawless and thin individuals, creating an unattainable standard for many people.Media InfluenceMedia plays a significant role in shaping society’s perception of beauty. Television shows, movies, and magazines often portray individuals with ‘perfect’ bodies, leading to the belief that this is the norm. Constant exposure to these images can negatively impact one’s self-esteem and body image.Personal ExperiencesNegative experiences in a person’s li fe, such as bullying or body shaming, can also contribute to body image concerns. Repeated negative comments or experiences can significantly impact an individual’s self-perception and lead to long-lasting body dissatisfaction.Consequences of Body Image ConcernsBody image concerns can have severe consequences on one’s mental and physical well-being. Some of the common consequences include:Eating DisordersBody dissatisfaction often leads to the development of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. Individuals may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercising, or purging behaviors to achieve their desired body shape, which can have detrimental effects on their health.Low Self-esteem and DepressionConstantly comparing oneself to unrealistic ideals can result in low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness. This, in turn, can lead to depression and other mental health issues.Negative Body PerceptionRepeatedly focusing on perceived flaws can distort one’s p erception of their body. Individuals may develop a negative body image, even if it doesn’t align with reality. This can further exacerbate body dissatisfaction and lead to unhealthy behaviors.Overcoming Body Image ConcernsIt is essential to address and overcome body image concerns to achieve a healthy and balanced life. Here are some practical strategies to overcome these concerns:Practice Self-careEngaging in activities that promote self-love and care can help improve body image. This may include adopting a healthy lifestyle, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and taking time for oneself to engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.Surround Yourself with Positive InfluencesLimit exposure to media that perpetuates unrealistic body ideals. Instead, surround yourself with positive role models and individuals who promote body positivity and self-acceptance. Joining support groups or seeking therapy can also be beneficial in finding a supportive community.Challenge Negative ThoughtsRecognize and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about your body. Focus on your strengths and positive aspects of yourself, rather than dwelling on perceived flaws. Affirmations and positive self-talk can help shift your mindset towards self-acceptance.Seek Professional Help if NeededIf body image concerns significantly impact your daily life and well-being, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial. They can provide guidance and support in overcoming negative body image and developing a healthier perception of oneself.ConclusionBody image concerns are prevalent in today’s society, causing individuals to feel dissatisfied and anxious about their physical appearance. However, by understanding the underlying causes and implementing practical strategies, individuals can overcome body image concerns and embrace a positive and healthy self-perception. Remember, self-acceptance and self-love are essential for a fulfilling life, regardless of society’s unrealistic beauty standar ds.。
网红经济利弊英语作文The Pros and Cons of the Influencer EconomyIn today's digital age, the rise of the influencer economy has become increasingly prominent. Social media platforms have empowered individuals to become brand ambassadors, product endorsers, and trendsetters,collectively known as "influencers." While this new economy has brought numerous benefits, it is not without its shareof drawbacks.On the positive side, the influencer economy has revolutionized marketing and advertising. Traditional methods of promoting products or services often involved costly campaigns and reached a limited audience. However, influencers have a direct line of communication with their followers, often numbering in the millions. This allows brands to target specific demographics with precision and achieve a higher level of engagement. Furthermore, influencers are often perceived as more authentic and relatable than traditional celebrities or corporate figures, making their endorsements more impactful.The influencer economy has also provided numerous opportunities for individuals to make a living by sharing their passions, expertise, and lifestyles. Many influencers have built successful businesses around their social media presence, creating jobs for themselves and others in the process. This has also led to the emergence of new career paths, such as social media management and content creation.However, the influencer economy is not without its challenges. One significant concern is the issue of authenticity and trust. As influencers are often compensated for promoting products or services, there is a potential for them to exaggerate or misrepresent thebenefits of these items. This can lead to consumer dissatisfaction and erode trust in the influencer. Additionally, the competitive nature of the industry hasled to some influencers resorting to unethical practices, such as buying followers or engaging in clickbait tacticsto boost their visibility.Moreover, the focus on appearances and materialism inthe influencer economy can have negative effects on society. The constant portrayal of perfect lives and flawless bodiescan create unrealistic expectations and pressures on individuals, especially young people. This can lead to issues such as body image dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression.In conclusion, the influencer economy has brought numerous benefits, including a revolution in marketing and advertising and new opportunities for individuals. However, it is crucial to be aware of its drawbacks, such as authenticity issues and negative societal impacts. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to promote ethical practices and create a more inclusive and diverse landscape that benefits all stakeholders.网红经济的利弊在当今数字时代,网红经济的崛起愈发显著。
广告利与弊英语作文150词Advertising plays a significant role in today's society, promoting products, services, and even ideas to the public. However, along with its benefits, advertising also brings about drawbacks.广告在当今社会扮演着重要的角色,向公众推广产品、服务甚至想法。
然而,除了它的好处之外,广告也带来了一些缺点。
From a positive perspective, advertising serves as a powerful tool for businesses to reach their target audience and increase their brand awareness. It helps consumers stay informed about new productsand services, and it can also contribute to economic growth by stimulating consumer demand.从积极的角度来看,广告是企业向目标受众传达信息并增加品牌知名度的重要工具。
它帮助消费者了解新产品和服务,并且还能通过刺激消费需求来促进经济增长。
On the other hand, the overabundance of advertising can be overwhelming and intrusive, leading to a sense of informationoverload and consumer fatigue. Additionally, advertisements often employ persuasive techniques that can manipulate and mislead consumers, impacting their decision-making processes.另一方面,过多的广告可能会让人感到不堪重负和入侵性,导致信息过载和消费者疲劳。
节食对健康的危害英语作文The Dangers of Dieting on Health.Dieting has become a common practice in today's society, as people strive to achieve a certain body image or weight goal. However, while many diets promise quick results, they often忽视 the long-term effects on health. This essay aims to explore the harmful effects of dieting on health and provide a balanced perspective on weight management.One of the most significant dangers of dieting is the risk of malnutrition. Many diets restrict certain food groups or provide insufficient calories, leading to a lackof essential nutrients. This can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which can have a profound impact on overall health. For example, iron deficiency can lead to anemia, while calcium deficiency can weaken bones. Long-term malnutrition can also affect cognitive function, immunity, and even lead to chronic diseases.Another concern with dieting is the potential forweight rebound. When individuals follow a restrictive diet, they may lose weight initially, but once they return totheir normal eating habits, the weight often comes back. This yo-yo effect can be damaging to health, as frequent weight fluctuations can affect metabolism and increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.Dieting can also lead to unhealthy eating habits. Restrictive diets often encourage individuals to skip meals, avoid certain foods, or eat in a certain way. However,these habits can be difficult to sustain in the long runand may promote an unhealthy relationship with food. Additionally, extreme dieting practices such as fasting or crash diets can lead to bingeing or obsessive eating behaviors, which can further contribute to weight gain and other health problems.Moreover, dieting can have negative psychological effects. Body image dissatisfaction and feelings of guiltor failure are common among those who diet. These emotions can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Theconstant focus on weight and appearance can also interfere with daily life, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall happiness.Instead of resorting to extreme dieting, a more sustainable approach to weight management is essential. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients and calories appropriate for individual needs is crucial. Regular physical activity, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, is also key to maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, seeking professional guidance, such as from a registered dietitian or healthcare provider, can help individuals develop a personalized weight management plan thatconsiders their unique needs and goals.In conclusion, while diets may promise quick weight loss, the long-term effects on health can be devastating. Malnutrition, weight rebound, unhealthy eating habits, and negative psychological effects are just some of the reasons why extreme dieting should be avoided. Instead, a balanced approach to weight management, combined with regularphysical activity and professional guidance, is the key toachieving a healthy weight and maintaining good health. Let's embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to weight management and prioritize our health and happiness.。
关于身材的英语作文英文回答:Body image is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses how we perceive, think about, and feel about our physical selves. It is influenced by a variety of factors, including societal norms, cultural expectations, personal experiences, and genetic predispositions.In Western cultures, the dominant ideal of beauty has traditionally been thin, white, and Eurocentric. This ideal has been perpetuated by the fashion industry, the media, and popular culture. As a result, many people feel pressure to conform to this narrow standard, which can lead to body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.However, there is a growing movement towards body positivity and inclusivity. This movement seeks to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and to promote theacceptance of all body types. Body positivity advocates argue that everyone deserves to feel good about their body, regardless of their size, shape, or appearance.There is growing evidence that body positivity is associated with a number of benefits, including improved mental health, self-esteem, and body satisfaction. Body positive individuals are also more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.If you are struggling with body image issues, there are a number of things you can do to improve your body image. First, it is important to challenge negative body talk. When you find yourself making negative comments about your body, try to replace them with positive ones. Second, it is helpful to focus on your body's abilities rather than its appearance. What can your body do for you? Third, surround yourself with positive people who support you and who make you feel good about yourself. Finally, seek professional help if you are struggling with body image issues that you cannot manage on your own.中文回答:关于身材。
社交媒体对于青少年的影响英语作文英文回答:Social media platforms have become an integral part of modern society, shaping the way we communicate, consume information, and interact with the world around us. For adolescents, social media can be a powerful tool forstaying connected with friends, exploring their identities, and accessing a wealth of knowledge and entertainment. However, it is important to recognize that social mediaalso poses potential risks and challenges that require careful consideration and guidance.Positive Impacts of Social Media on Adolescents.1. Enhanced Communication and Connectivity: Socialmedia allows adolescents to stay connected with friends and family members who may live far away or attend different schools. It also provides a platform for them to communicate with peers who share similar interests, hobbies,or aspirations.2. Identity Exploration: Social media provides adolescents with a space to experiment with different aspects of their identities, including their self-expression, values, and beliefs. They can engage with diverse online communities and interact with individuals who may not be present in their offline social circles.3. Access to Information and Resources: Social media platforms offer a vast repository of information on various topics, including education, health, and current events. Adolescents can use social media to stay informed about important issues, expand their knowledge, and connect with experts in different fields.4. Entertainment and Creativity: Social media is a major source of entertainment for adolescents. They can access a wide range of content, including videos, music, games, and user-generated creations. Social media also provides a platform for adolescents to showcase their own creativity by sharing their art, writing, or music withothers.Potential Risks and Challenges.1. Cyberbullying and Harassment: Unfortunately, social media can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying and online harassment. Adolescents may experience hurtful or threatening messages, images, or videos shared about them or their peers. This can have a significant impact on their mental health and well-being.2. Privacy Concerns: Social media platforms collect a substantial amount of personal data from their users, including their location, browsing history, and social connections. While some of this data is used to improve the user experience, there are concerns about how this information is shared with third parties and used for advertising purposes.3. Addiction and Screen Time: Social media can be highly addictive, and adolescents may spend excessive amounts of time on these platforms. This can lead todecreased physical activity, disrupted sleep patterns, and a neglect of other important responsibilities.4. Body Image Issues: Social media often presents idealized and unrealistic images of beauty and body shape. This can lead to body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders among adolescents who compare themselves to these images.Mitigating Risks and Promoting Positive Use.To mitigate the risks associated with social media and promote its positive use among adolescents, it is crucial to provide them with guidance and support. Parents, educators, and community leaders can play a vital role in:1. Education and Awareness: Adolescents should be educated about the potential risks and benefits of social media, including cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and the impact on mental health.2. Setting Boundaries and Limits: Setting clearboundaries around social media use can help adolescents avoid excessive screen time and prioritize other important activities.3. Encouraging Critical Thinking: Adolescents should be encouraged to critically evaluate the information they encounter on social media, identify biases, and consider alternative perspectives.4. Promoting Healthy Self-Esteem: Parents and educators should help adolescents develop a strong sense of self-esteem and body image, independent of the images they see on social media.5. Providing Support and Resources: Adolescents who experience cyberbullying, privacy concerns, or other challenges on social media should have access to support and resources from trusted adults, such as parents, teachers, or school counselors.中文回答:社交媒体对青少年的影响。
被外表困扰写一篇英语作文Being Troubled by Appearance。
Appearance plays an essential role in our society. From a young age, we are taught that first impressions matter, and our appearance is often the first thing people notice about us. Unfortunately, many individuals find themselves troubled by their appearance, which can have a significant impact on their self-esteem and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by those who are troubled by their appearance and discuss ways to overcome these struggles.One common issue faced by individuals troubled by their appearance is body image dissatisfaction. Society often promotes unrealistic beauty standards, leading many people to feel inadequate and self-conscious about their bodies. This dissatisfaction can lead to a range of negative emotions, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. It is crucial to recognize that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and no one should be defined by their appearance alone.Another challenge faced by those troubled by their appearance is the fear of judgment and rejection. When individuals feel insecure about their looks, they may avoid social interactions or public events, fearing that others will judge or ridicule them. This fear can isolate individuals and prevent them from forming meaningful connections with others. It is important to remember that true friends and loved ones accept us for who we are, regardless of our appearance.Furthermore, being troubled by appearance can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Some individuals may resort to extreme diets, excessive exercise, or even cosmetic procedures in an attempt to achieve their perceived ideal appearance. These behaviors can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. It is crucial to promote self-acceptance and healthy habits rather than striving for societal ideals that may not be realistic or attainable.Overcoming the struggles associated with being troubled by appearance requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, it is essential to challenge societal beauty standards and promote body positivity. This can be achieved through education, media representation, and promoting diverse beauty ideals. By celebrating all body types and appearances, we can help individuals feel more confident and accepted.Secondly, fostering a positive self-image is crucial. Encouraging self-care practices, such as exercise, healthy eating, and engaging in activities that bring joy, can help individuals feel better about themselves. Additionally, practicing self-compassion and positive self-talk can counteract negative thoughts and improve overall self-esteem.Moreover, seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals can be beneficial. Having a support system that understands and validates one's feelings can provide a sense of belonging and help individuals navigate their struggles. Therapists or counselors specialized in body image issues can offer guidance and tools to overcome negative self-perception.In conclusion, being troubled by appearance is a common struggle faced by many individuals in our society. The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards can lead to body image dissatisfaction, fear of judgment, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. However, by challenging beauty ideals, promoting self-acceptance, and seeking support, individuals can overcome these challenges and embrace their unique beauty. Remember, true beauty lies in being confident, kind, and true to oneself.。
大学生容貌焦虑的英语作文Title: Coping with Appearance Anxiety Among College Students。
In today's society, appearance anxiety has become a prevalent issue, especially among college students. This essay aims to explore the causes and consequences of appearance anxiety among college students and propose effective coping strategies.Firstly, the media plays a significant role in shaping unrealistic beauty standards, bombarding individuals with images of flawless bodies and perfect faces. Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat exacerbate this issue by promoting filters and editing tools that distort reality. Consequently, many college students feel pressured to conform to these unattainable standards, leading to heightened anxiety about their appearance.Moreover, societal expectations and peer pressurecontribute to appearance anxiety among college students. In a culture that values physical attractiveness, individuals who deviate from the norm may face discrimination or ridicule. College campuses, where students are constantly comparing themselves to their peers, can be particularly hostile environments for those struggling with body image issues.The consequences of appearance anxiety can be severe and far-reaching. Poor self-esteem and body image dissatisfaction can hinder academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, appearance anxiety may contribute to the development of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, which can have serious health implications.Fortunately, there are various strategies that college students can employ to cope with appearance anxiety. Firstly, it is essential to recognize that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Embracing diversity and celebrating individuality can help combat unrealistic beauty standards. Additionally, practicing self-careactivities such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies can improve self-esteem and reduce anxiety levels.Furthermore, seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can be beneficial forindividuals struggling with appearance anxiety. Talking about your feelings and experiences with trustedindividuals can provide validation and reassurance. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is also an effective treatment option for addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with appearance anxiety.In conclusion, appearance anxiety is a significantissue affecting many college students today, withdetrimental effects on their mental and physical health. By understanding the underlying causes of appearance anxiety and implementing effective coping strategies, college students can overcome these challenges and cultivate a positive body image. It is essential to promote self-acceptance, diversity, and support networks to create a campus environment that values individuals for who they are, rather than how they look.。
Body Image Dissatisfaction: A Growing Concern Among MenNewsletters for Mental Health, Marc A. Silva, Intern Counselor, MSOE Counseling Services,April 2006Are men overly concerned with body image issues?American men spent:∙$4 billion on exercise equipment and health club memberships∙$3 billion on grooming aids and fragrances∙$800 million on hair transplantsAmerican men spent:∙$500 million on male cosmetic surgery procedures∙$300 million on procedures such as pectoral implants, chin surgery, and penis enlargement∙$200 million on procedures such as liposuction and rhinoplasty (nose jobs)It does appear that men are growing increasingly concerned with the appearance of their body, and are willing to fork over millions of dollars to enhance their physical image. The fitness and cosmetic surgery industries have discovered this new demographic and have developed marketing strategies specifically targeted to young men. And while most are not undergoing drastic cosmetic procedures, the rate of hazardous eating and eating behaviors related to body image concerns is increasing.Over the past decade, men’s body image concerns have gained the attention of many researchers in the field of psychology∙Research shows that today’s coll ege men are reporting greater levels of body dissatisfaction, and this is true for both gay and heterosexual men∙Males associate their attractiveness with increased muscle definition, and are concerned about body shape (as opposed to weight) and increasing their muscle mass (Knowlton, 1995; University of Iowa Health Care, 2002)∙Eating disorders in males typically involve a constant competition to stay more defined than other men (University of Iowa Health Care, 2002)∙Gay and heterosexual men have equivalent levels of body esteem, satisfaction with body shape, and desired levels of thinness (Yelland&Tiggermann, 2003). However, gay men are more likely than heterosexual men to be treated for eating disorders∙Disordered eating and exercising behaviors among men are associated with obsessive feelings of inadequacy, unattractiveness, and failure∙The viewing and purchasing of muscle and fitness magazines was associated with body dissatisfaction in both gay and heterosexual men (Duggan & McCreary, 2004) ∙Gay and heterosexual men involved in sports that emphasize strict body weight adherence (such as swimmers, runners, wrestlers, and jockeys) are at higher risk for developing eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia (Ennis, Drewnowski, &Grinker, 1987; Knowlton, 1995)The ideal male body is growing steadily more muscularHypotheses regarding contemporary men’s body image distress have been presented by researchers in the field of psychology. It appears that the media plays a significant role in this by presenting the public with unrealistic images of the ideal male body. Consider the following:∙GI Joe is to boys what Barbie is to girls (Pope, Olivardia, Gruber, &Borowiecki, 1999). Over the past20 years, these G.I. Joe toys have grown more muscular and currently have sharper muscledefinition. The GI Joe Extreme action figure, if extrapolated to a height of 5’10”, would have larger biceps than any bodybuilder in history.∙ A Playgirl centerfold model of 1976 would need to shed 12 lbs of fat and gain 27 lbs of muscle to bea centerfold of today (Leit, Pope, & Gray, 2001).In addition, the male body is increasingly being objectified and sexualized in popular print ads. For example, advertisements promoting weight lifting, exercise products, and underwear present the model as dehumanized (the gaze of male model is not at viewer) and the body is objectified (bodies are shown in parts, such as from the shoulders down). Additionally, the naked male body is increasingly portrayed in magazines targeted towards women and gay men.The drive for muscularityThe Drive for Muscularity– a concept operationalized by psychologist Dr. Don McCreary – represents an individual’s perception that (1) he is not muscular enough, and (2) bulk should be added to his body frame (McCreary &Sasse, 2000).Research shows that young men tend to see themselves as thinner and less muscular than they actually are. In contrast to women with body image concerns, who typically seek to shed pounds and achieve a specific body weight, men with body image concerns want to bulk up. Because men are socialized not to discuss their body image concerns, their silent anguish may lead to feelings of isolation, distress, depression, and anxiety. The Drive for Muscularity in young men has been associated with low self esteem, neuroticism, and perfectionism (Davis, Karvinen, & McCreary, 2005).The drive for muscularity becomes pathological when it causes significant distress and interferes with social and occupational functioning. Any of the following signs are cause for concern:∙Neglecting school, work, family, or friends to spend more time at the gym∙Persistent fear and anxiety of appearing too small∙The use of steroids or other performance enhancing drugsConsequences of striving for the ideal bodyYoung men with a poor body image and a high drive for muscularity often have corresponding feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. In addition, they may be more at risk for abusing anabolic steroids, the health consequences of which are well documented and include a greater risk for coronary heart disease, kidney and liver damage, liver cancer, high blood pressure, and reduced immune system functioning. Side effects specific to men include shrinking of the testicles, reduced sperm count, infertility, baldness, development of breasts, and increased risk for prostate cancer (National Institute of Drug Abuse, 2005). People who compare themselves to unrealistic images are likely to experience body image dissatisfaction, mental health issues, and threats to healthy physical functioning. Instead of striving for the perfect body, begin to identify the positive parts of yourself and enjoy the body you have!References and Recommended Reading:∙Davis, C., Karvinen, K., & McCreary, D. R. (2005). Personality correlates of a drive for muscularity in young men.Personality and Individual Differences, 39, 349-359.∙Ennis, M. P., Drewnowski, A., &Grinker, J. A. (1987). Body composition, body size estimation, and attitudes toward eating in male college athletes. Psychosomatic Medicine, 49, 56-64.∙Knowlton, L. (1995). Eating disorders in males. Psychiatric Times, 12(9): /p950942.html∙Leit, R. A., Pope, H. G., & Gray, J. J. (2001). Cultural expectations of muscularity in men: The evolution of Playgirl centerfolds. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 29(1), 90-93.∙Luciano, L. (2002). Looking good: Male body image in modern America. Hill and Wang∙National Institute on Drug Abuse (2005). Steroids (anabolic-androgenic). NIDA InfoFacts. Retrieved from: /∙Pope, H. G., Philips, K., &Olivardia, R. (2000). The Adonis complex: the secret crisis of male body Obsession. Simon & Schuster.∙University of Iowa. (2002, December 30). Eating disorders and body dissatisfaction have historically been tagged as women’s problems. Health Reports:/reports/internalmedicine/021230whome.htmlLast accessed 26 Nov 12 at:/life_at_msoe/current_student_resources/student_resources/counseling_services/newsletters_for_mental_hea lth/body_image_dissatisfaction.shtml。