The Emmys

[irishgrl]

Originally Posted by SuzeQuze

I think that the media influence on self-esteem is very real. But you're right, people are ultimately responsible for their own self-image. Kids aren't though, they are heavily influenced by the images they see. Therefore these images have actually shaped who we are in some ways. We are a product of all of our experiences, including what we have seen and heard in the media. You can't help but internalize those images in ways you aren't even fully aware of. Media people should be more responsible but I don't think there should be regulations or anything. Oh hell no. Just have a conscience people, I mean "heroine chic"? That was just ass.

I think you just argued with yourself, to wit:

How can we be ultimately responsible for our self image when that very self image is forumulated while we are kids (and watching TV or listening to radio or what have you)?? You're apparently saying that at some magical/mythical point, our self image should improve merely by virtue of aging? I cant think of anyone who was able to do that to any degree

And speaking for myself, I was ALWAYS skinny, a size 3 or 5 (and even THEN didnt have a good self image) until my mid to late 30's and then I got heavy relatively quickly. Talk about a real head trip!! Im trying to make peace with who I am at this moment and not stress about trying to recapture my glory days. Truth be told, when I WAS skinny, I had no end of men troubles because they wouldnt leave me alone and I couldnt differentiate between a decent man and a not so decent man, and because of my low self esteem anyway (thanks to my dad and my grandparents) I needed a man's attention for validation. Any man, even a bad one. Now that I am heavier and mostly left alone (except for the boy toys!!), Im HAPPY for the first freaking time in my life! So, these issues are pretty complex and I think the dynamics are more important than a cursory statement about "get out and exercise" or "change your diet". Im a firm believer in baby steps. Do what you can manage and take it in increments.