Factors that affect body image and body image satisfaction

Abstract

Body image, which is a multi-dimensional, sujective and dynamic term, refers to people's perception of their own physical characteristics. It has an important role in terms of self-perception and self-esteem and it has been manipulating our lives since early childhood. What is important in body image is the attitudes, perceptions, feelings and interpretaions related to the body. Social-cultural valves and people's perceptions affect body image as well. In today's societies where beauty and ideal body standarts are of high importance, especially mass communication tools have raised people's dissatisfaction with their body images. Thereby, children and young peple have become more problematic about their apperances. Thus, families, educators, health professionals and media should pay attention to the situation.