Q: Our teen daughter is constantly dieting and worried about her weight. Her weight is normal, and we think she looks great. How can we do to make sure she stays healthy and feels good about herself?
A: Constantly dieting, being preoccupied about weight or appearance, suddenly becoming vegan or vegetarian during adolescence can be a tip-off for a body image issue and disordered eating which in time can lead to eating disorders. Poor body image can be also linked to low self-esteem. Parents have an important role in helping global teens to build a positive body image. Here are a few tips:
Focus on the inside-In our era of Snapchat, Instagram, and photoshopping images, the focus is often on one’s external appearance. Of course, the focus on appearance is not just limited to girls. As pediatrician and author of Decoding Boys, Cara Natterson points out in her recent New York Times piece, boys can also struggle with appearance. Help teens turn the lens to what’s on the inside (such as their values, intelligence, strengths) instead. Encourage them to spend time with friends who feel good about their bodies and are not always criticizing themselves or others. Be aware of their social media use and consider limiting if serious body image concerns develop.
Think about role models-Help your teen cultivate role models who have unique strengths and looks rather than an idealized appearance or physique.
Avoid making weight-related comments-Try not to make remarks about weight or body types: whether you are discussing your own teen or someone else. Also, actively discourage teasing by family or friends based on physical characteristics, including size. If teasing does happen, discuss with friends and family members the importance of helping teens to build a positive self-image and trying to switch the pattern of teasing.
Be aware of your own body image-Teens often model parental behavior. If you are overly preoccupied with your weight or appearance, are constantly making comments about the need to go on a diet, get bigger biceps, a flatter stomach or otherwise change your look, your kids will too.
Get help early on-If you are worried about the constant dieting and focus on weight, your daughter may be a risk for disordered eating. Ask why she feels unhappy about herself and what she wants to change. Also, ask her if she has tried purging, restricting, using laxatives, exercising all the time or other ways to change her weight. It may be a good time to check in with a counselor, nutritionist or health provider to ensure that she is healthy and discuss positive ways to stay healthy.
For more information:
https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/teens-body-image-and-eating-disorders