BAGUIO CITY – In a recent conference at the Department of Health-Cordillera (DOH-CAR) BGHMC Compound on April 11, 2024, Dr. Anniline Teng, a Medical Officer III specializing in Psychiatry at BGHMC, shed light on a prevalent yet often overlooked issue of body shaming.
Body shaming encompasses a broad spectrum, targeting aspects such as weight, height, hairiness, hair color, body shape, muscularity, and even physical marks left by diseases like psoriasis.
Dr. Teng emphasized that body shaming is not confined to strangers or bullies; it can emerge from well-meaning advice or even within familial circles, perpetuating feelings of shame and inferiority. “It was noted on studies that peers or friends were deemed the worst perpetrators of appearance, teasing and criticism.”
In Filipino culture, body shaming is often disguised as a harmless joke, yet its impact can be profound and damaging. Examples include derogatory remarks about weight, skin tone preferences influenced by colonial ideals, and societal pressure regarding height. Family gatherings, rather than fostering unity, sometimes serve as breeding grounds for body shaming, particularly among impressionable adolescents.
The research underscores the harmful effects of body shaming on mental health, particularly for women. Accumulated experiences of being shamed can lead to multiple issues, including depression, eating disorders, and low self-esteem. Social media worsens this situation, with studies indicating that women who engage in selfie culture often report heightened feelings of anxiety and decreased confidence.
“Yung mga babae na nag post ng pictures regardless of ieedit nila or hindi, sila yung mas nagkakaroon ng anxiety, mas less confident and feeling nila sila yung hindi maganda compared yung sa mga hindi nagpopost.” Dr. Teng explained.
“According to the studies, yung mga mahilig gumamit ng beauty filter sila yung prone sa depression and mental health health disorders,” she added.
Moreover, body shaming extends beyond appearance to include criticism of sexual performance and body shape, affecting men as well. This underscores the urgency to address body shaming comprehensively, recognizing its complex impact on individuals’ well-being.
In response to this prevalent issue, the body positivity movement has gained traction, advocating for celebrating all bodies irrespective of societal norms. However, critics argue that this movement can sometimes shift into toxic positivity, imposing unrealistic standards.
An alternative approach gaining prominence is body neutrality, which emphasizes acceptance and respect for one’s body without the pressure to love it unconditionally. By prioritizing the body’s functionality over its appearance, individuals can cultivate a healthier relationship with their bodies.
To combat body shaming effectively, Dr. Teng outlined several strategies. These include being mindful of one’s role in perpetuating body shaming, refraining from engaging in diet talk and focusing on the body’s capabilities rather than its aesthetics. Additionally, she stressed the importance of fostering positive self-talk and critically evaluating social media consumption to mitigate its negative impact.
Addressing body shaming requires collective action and a shift in societal attitudes. By fostering a culture of acceptance, empathy, and self-love, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where everybody is celebrated and respected. As Dr. Teng duly puts it, “Body shaming is harmful to one’s well-being. We could either be perpetrators or tayo yung target, so Let’s do something about it.” By Jackielyn U. Reyes