Reaching Ultimate Perfection
Source used to build lesson: How do “body perfect” ideals in the media have a negative impact on body image and behaviors?
It studies the link between the media and body image and its influence that it has when it comes to how we view our individual differences. It recognizes that the way we view ourselves is directly correlated with the media and that then affects our mental and physical health.
Lesson Goals:
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Be able to convey how the media is toxic to our well being.
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Understand why we want to be “body perfect”.
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Understand why it not only affects our mental health but as well as our physical health.
Focus of the class:
-What does it mean to be “body perfect”?
-How can we change that definition?
Activity:
Purpose
-To teach kids that the media shows us what we should be and why we should hate ourselves because we don’t look like that.
-Show how the definition of “body perfect” is an unhealthy image and that by re-defining it we are showing that the media does not define us we define ourselves.
Materials (if applicable):
-Long sheet of paper or whiteboard
-Half sheets of colored construction paper
-Marker
Exercise details:
-Open up discussion to the class and ask them “What does it mean to be “body perfect”. Generalize a list on a whiteboard or a really long sheet of paper, make it big enough so everyone can see. After making a list of 10-15 things of what it means to be “body perfect” ask them “If you think this is what it means to be “body perfect” what do you think you have to do to get that way?” Generalize another list, and after making a list of 10-15 things ask the class “Are the things on this list a healthy way of being perfect?”. You then explain to the class that the media (magazines, TV shows, movies) portray people who look “perfect” but in reality those people don’t really look like that. And that we should not let other people but especially the media determine what it means to be perfect. You then pass out a piece of paper with the name of another student on the back of the paper. You instruct the class to write down 5 things that they find perfect in that person. And when they are done they go and give to them. You tell the class that the reason why you had them write down what they thought was perfect out of another person was because the imperfections we see in ourselves are perfections to others and by seeing that in writing we are able to gain more confidence in ourselves. Then ask the class what they think it means to be “body perfect”.
Discussion
End the class by reminding them that trying to be “perfect” can lead to a very unhealthy lifestyle and that even when you are “perfect” you won’t really be happy. Remind them that what we see in ourselves as ugly is beautiful to others so we shouldn’t change ourselves we should love who we are and change in a healthy way.
References:
-Dittmar, H. (2009). How Do “Body Perfect” Ideals in the Media Have a Negative Impact on Body Image and Behaviors? Factors and Processes Related to Self and Identity. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 28(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1521/jscp.2009.28.1.1