The Importance of Establishing Primary School Programs to form Positive Body Image

Abstract

This paper examines the literature on body image at the primary school level and the need for specific programs to exist in order to perpetuate a positive body image in students. The reasons for the importance of programs which promote a positive body image are explored in depth. Potential benefits of a positive body image are discussed. Media influences and body dissatisfaction which may be developed in childhood being responsible for a wide array of mental illnesses in adolescence are touched upon. Moreover, specific programs which involved research studies are looked at on the primary school level with their correlations to positive body image. Lastly, future directions for research are explored intended to build on the importance and need for increased awareness at the primary level in educators and parents alike.