Body image issues in women

April 8, 2024

Low self-esteem
Petra Nagy, sexual psychologist

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Women and men unconsciously seek different traits in members of the opposite sex. It's an instinct that's been present since humans first existed, guiding our mate selection strategies without us consciously reflecting on it even once in our lifetime.

Perhaps even today we can state, although not without doubt, that men place greater importance on appearance. Many criticize them for this, but in reality, monitoring external features is an evolutionary heritage that served survival in the past. Since it is crucial for men to ensure they can pass on their genes, it is essential for them to select the right woman for this task. So, like it or not, they are geared to pick attributes such as a fresh complexion, shiny, long hair, a suitable waist-to-hip ratio, youthful gait, beautiful skin, full lips, and a healthy physique—since all these traits unmistakably suggest vitality. It is no coincidence that among the first products of the beauty industry were red lipstick and blush, and I could also mention corsets and the rise of high-heeled shoes. No matter how women strive not to be judged by men based on looks, in reality, they have always subconsciously cared to please them and attract their attention.

But how is the emphasis on femininity evolving today? I think the worst that could happen to us in this area is the strong rise of social media. On various internet platforms, a false image of women prevails, which is absolutely destructive in every age and phase of life. One craze that shocks every sensible person, in my opinion, is the perfect angle between the jawline and neck. Yes. We even have an ideal measurement for this, did you know?! Unbelievable. There's no better Saturday afternoon activity than a pleasant jawline sculpting. Everyone knows that lumping together body traits deemed perfect on various days into one body is almost an impossible mission, yet many women desperately try to achieve it. Why? If we demand not to be boxed in based on appearance, then why? Why is it better to create and live in an artificial world instead of what is naturally given? And how can we return to normal, traditional frames?

The answer probably lies in developing a positive and stable self-image. I'll let you in on a secret: all of this has nothing to do with actual external features—but rather with self-esteem and a realistic, stable self-image. It's hard work, but it's worth pursuing to become aware of yourself and your real values.

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