Do We Have Plus-Size Models To Thank For a More Positive Body Image?

   By SheSpeaksTeam  Aug 09, 2016
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It seems that some of the body-positive images and plus-size models we have begun to see may be making a difference with how we see ourselves. A new study suggests that over the last 30 years women have grown more satisfied and comfortable with their bodies regardless of the trend toward obesity.

Daily Mail reports about the study from the College of Wooster in Ohio that tracked both men and women over a period of 31 years starting in 1981. Though women are still not quite as satisfied with their bodies as the men involved in the study, they have made great strides in the last three decades and scientists are reporting that this may be due to curvier models like Ashley Graham gaining popularity. Psychologist Dr Bryan Karazsia explains, “The last two decades have witnessed increasing attention and awareness on a body acceptance movement aimed primarily at girls and women.”

The study also found that men often seem more satisfied with their weight than women, but they do tend to worry about strength and how muscular they are. Researchers involved in the study say men often reported feeling even more dissatisfaction with their bodies than women when it came to muscle mass.

Researchers were especially surprised with the results of the study seeing that average weight in the U.S. is at an all-time high. Looking at the fact that more than two thirds of all U.S. adults are considered overweight it was a surprise to researchers to see that we are becoming more happy and accepting of the skin we’re in.

What do you think of the study that suggests women are becoming more satisfied with their bodies?

Do you think curvier models and more positive messages in the media about body image have helped women to be more satisfied with their bodies?

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SammiJo by SammiJo | Dillsboro, IN
Sep 03, 2016

I'm a plus sized girl, and I love when I see plus sized women on the big screen or the plus sized models. They give me inspiration and get me to start thinking, well she's big and beautiful, and so am I. It helps our confidence as women, and in a world where so many females cut each other down we need that confidence, especially from other females.

Piccadilly432 by Piccadilly432 | INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Aug 29, 2016

I think curvier models are a move in the right direction but they are few and far between. The media and society still has an unhealthy ideal of what an ideal woman's body should be. As women we need to empower an accept and lift up each other as the beautiful, strong women we are on a daily basis.

ortiz1988c by ortiz1988c | BRONX, NY
Aug 10, 2016

It's great to have models in all sizes.