Body Image

Research indicates that being late in developing physically is particularly difficult for boys during middle childhood and adolescence.  Late developing boys tend to be smaller, less muscular, and less traditionally athletic than earlier developing boys.  This puts them at a great disadvantage because sports are an important aspect of defining themselves and their adolescent experience. In regard to girls, eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder could also develop during these ages. The difficulty both boys and girls experience during this period can have lasting effects on self-esteem well into adulthood.  Again, this result indicates the critical role that body image plays in the development of our self-esteem and our self-evaluations.  How has US society become so body oriented? How does sexuality play a role? Please be sure to use at least 2 points from our reading to support your statements.