It's not the Victoria Secrets super models or the skinny, out-of-proportion Barbie dolls, or even peer pressure that is the #1 cause of body issues for young girls.
It's their mothers.
"Moms are probably the most important influence on a daughter's body image," said Dr. Leslie Sim, clinical director of Mayo Clinic's eating disorders program and a child psychologist.
Did You Know?
95% of people with eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25
Body image is closely linked to self-esteem. Low self-esteem in adolescents can lead to eating disorders, early sexual activity, substance use and suicidal thoughts.
“Even if a mom says to the daughter, 'You look so beautiful, but I'm so fat,' it can be detrimental."-Dr. Leslie Sim
That my mom and every woman in my family, including me, has been on a diet my whole life. I’ll be turning 37 next week.
Are you thinking, “Great, I’m screwing up my kid?” Or having flashbacks of your childhood and how it’s all connected.
Well good, I got your attention.
I work with teens supporting them to appreciate and love themselves in ways that a number (or size of their thighs) cannot define, and to reach their goals in a safe, supportive and self-loving way. But the truth is…I need your help. If you do not love yourself - inside and out - neither will your daughter.
I invite you to join me on making one word (and action!) your New Year’s Resolution:
Self-Love
Self-Love and parenting are not about being perfect, or perfection. It’s about being connected.
Each week I’ll be posting tools and tips on how to build a deeper connection with yourself and with your daughter.
Get excited, I am!
~Julie Brower, Certified Teen Life Coach, Health Coach & Teen Yoga Teacher, has helped hundreds of teen girls gain knowledge, tools, confidence and courage to make decisions from a place of self-knowledge, self-respect and strength. Through one-on-one coaching, group workshops, events, parties and movement, Julie connects with girls on their level and gets results.
Sources:
1)National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. "Eating Disorders Statistics." ANAD. Accessed February 24, 2014, http://www.anad.org/get-information/about-eating-disorders/eating-disorders-statistics/.
2) 3 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. "Developing Adolescents." APA: American Psychological Association . Accessed February 24, 2014, http://www.apa.org/pi/families/resources/develop.pdf.