Standards Of Beauty Research Articles

From Romanian Communism to Capitalism: the Representation and Ideology of Women’s Bodies

This article analyses the representation of women’s bodies in the narratives of Și se auzeau greierii (And Crickets Could Be Heard) by Corina Sabău, ca și cum nimic nu s-ar fi întâmplat (as if nothing has happened) by Alina Nelega, and Viața e a mea (The Life is Mine) by Emilia Faur. It explores how the portrayal of maternity, sexual abuse, abortion, and gender identity changes from Romanian Communism to the capitalist democracy. If the socialist women were submissive to the pronatalist desiderate, being oppressed because of the insalubrious abortions (Sabău) or because of the fear to affirm their gender identity (Nelega), the capitalist advertisement with its sexist standards of beauty, doubled by the postnatal depression, imposes the fatality of death (Faur). My objective is to connect feminist aesthetics with ideological critique by identifying the abstract model of a feminist Bildungsroman (Rita Felski) in the three novels under consideration. However, on a formal level, I will analyse how in the case of Faur's and Nelega's novels, the free indirect style, a blend of affect translated into impersonal form (Moretti), mediates a socio-political commentary for increased awareness and active engagement in dismantling the adaptable patriarchy inherent in any political system, while the first-person narrative (Sabău) shows how the social fabric is internalised by the narrator, following her inner turmoil.

Exploration of the diversity of virtual influencers used as tourism ambassadors in South Korea

ABSTRACT This study explores the diversity of virtual influencers used as tourism ambassadors. Using qualitative research methods, in-depth interviews with 27 tourism professionals were conducted from August in 2023 to January in 2024. Data analysis revealed four key themes: Visual Impact, Control Over Image and Messaging, Promotion of Unrealistic Beauty Standards, and Limited Diversity Representation. This study offers an in-depth perspective on how diversity is reflected in virtual influencers, how the diversity of virtual influencers is connected to the values of modern tourists. Findings have managerial implications for the development of strategies to improve diversity using virtual influencers in tourism.

Eye-Tracking Insights into the Perception of Buttocks.

Aesthetic enhancements to the buttock region have grown in demand due to media influence and evolving beauty standards. Using eye-tracking technology, we sought to uncover subconscious visual preferences regarding the buttock aesthetic. The objective of this investigation was to assess visual gaze patterns in assessing female buttocks among Caucasian and Asians through eye-tracking technology. 67 participants viewed photographs of buttocks from various angles, and eye movements were analyzed using the Tobii Pro Nano eye-tracker. Males fixated on the intergluteal cleft for 0.96 ± 1.1s and the thigh gap for 0.07 ± 0.2s; while, females fixated for 0.81 ± 0.9s and 0.06 ± 0.2s on the same regions, respectively. Significant gender differences were observed in the intergluteal cleft (p = 0.002) and upper lateral buttock (p < 0.001). This study offers new insights into the observation of buttocks. The consistent attention toward the intergluteal cleft across demographics could be of potential significance in the aesthetic perception of buttocks. However, diverse gaze patterns also underscore the multifaceted nature of human attraction. These findings hold implications for plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, and the sociocultural understanding of beauty. A deeper dive into aesthetic preferences is pivotal for a holistic understanding of human perceptions of attractive buttocks. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Rejecting Multiracial Stereotypes: Parental Socialization Practices at the Intersection of Race and Gender

Stereotypes surrounding multiracial individuals include being viewed as inherently attractive because of their mixed-race background, and, therefore, having a superiority complex, which reinforces racial hierarchies and creates division and tension within communities of color. This superiority complex is often rooted in colorism and proximity to White beauty standards. Drawing upon in-depth, semistructured interviews with 19 sets of interracial parents in the United States, I describe parents’ awareness and perceptions of these stereotypes at the intersection of race and gender. Parents understand that their Black multiracial boys must contend with both multiracial stereotypes and controlling images of Black men and boys. I argue that parents’ understanding of both multiracial stereotypes, like the Biracial Beauty Stereotype, and controlling images of Black boys and men informs their racial socialization practices as they help their child(ren) build a positive racial identity and prepare for discrimination.

Aesthetic Transcendence: Fashion's Evolution, Philosophical Reflections, and Societal Impact

This research paper explores the evolution of fashion from its utilitarian origins over 170,000 years ago to its contemporary role as a symbol of cultural expression and individual identity. Tracing the historical trajectory through ancient civilizations, the Renaissance era, and significant societal shifts post-World War II, the study highlights the dynamic interplay between culture, external forces, and fashion. It also delves into the commodification of beauty in the contemporary era, examining the persuasive techniques used by beauty brands in advertisements, such as leveraging emotional states to connect deeply with consumers. The global impact of beauty standards and the perpetuation of white-centric ideals are scrutinized, emphasizing influential figures like Marcus Garvey, who challenged these norms. The study sheds light on the beauty industry's promotion of skin-lightening and hair-straightening products, particularly in Asian markets, and offers philosophical reflections on these beauty standards. Engaging with the works of Hume, Kant, Santayana, and Schiller, the paper dissects the subjective and objective dimensions of beauty, including Hume's emphasis on pleasure and pain, Kant's categorization of beauty, Santayana's concept of objectified pleasure, and Schiller's influence on German Idealism. It culminates with an exploration of Jean Baudrillard's "Death of the Real," examining the implications of a society immersed in creating identities detached from objective reality. This paper weaves together the historical evolution of fashion, beauty brand strategies, and philosophical reflections on beauty, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between aesthetics, identity, and societal perceptions.

I apologize: body positivity love movements

PurposeThis paper delves into the profound influence of societal beauty standards and the prevalence of body shaming in contemporary culture. It explores how these societal norms contribute to self-esteem issues and psychological distress among individuals, particularly young people.Design/methodology/approachThrough the poignant medium of student letters and the power of prayer, it explores the personal experiences and narratives of young individuals who have faced these challenges.FindingsMoreover, this study highlights the transformative role of education in reshaping these societal norms and fostering a culture of body positivity.Originality/valueThis study underscores the potential of student letters and the spiritual guidance of prayer as tools for self-reflection and healing, ultimately advocating for the pivotal role of education in promoting body positivity and challenging the constraints of unrealistic beauty standards and body shaming.

Addressing a Social Media Addiction and Solution from Simplified Kundalini Yoga Practices

ABSTRACT Social media's impact on the mental health of youngsters is complex and multifaceted. While it provides connectivity and opportunities, it also presents challenges. Excessive usage can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, as users compare their lives to curated online personas. Cyberbullying and online harassment further exacerbate emotional distress. The constant need for validation through likes and comments can negatively affect self-esteem. Moreover, the fast-paced, curated nature of social media can foster unrealistic beauty standards and induce body image issues. However, social media can also offer support networks and resources for mental health awareness. Finding a balance between online and offline interactions, promoting Yoga is a best solution. Simplified Kundalini Yoga is a practice that helps to connect with our innermost selves and tap into our spiritual nature. By cultivating a sense of mindfulness and awareness, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

The Overarching Cost of Beauty in Mauritania

This research paper outlines the risks women in Mauritania - including girls at the extremely young age of five years old - take to secure marriage and appear attractive to those who are male-identifying. Over time, the United States has become more inclusive with a broader spectrum of sizes that they carry in stores. However, not much long ago, the beauty standard in American society was to look as thin as possible (Wiseman et al., 1992). Girls in the United States would undergo dangerous diets, supplements, and bizarre exercises to stay thin, where in Mauritania, their beauty standard revolved around the complete opposite (Wiseman et al., 1992). Instead, girls in Mauritania grew up in environments where the standards of beauty perpetuated obesity. Mauritanian men claimed that skinny women looked like skeletons and they’d prefer not to sleep with “a bag of bones” (Esposito, 2022). Obesity in Mauritania was seen as a status symbol as many people believed larger women were wealthy because their husband had the financial means to gorge her on copious amounts of food. Therefore, women who were looking for potential suitors would try to become as large as possible to appear desirable to other men.

The Representation of Body Image and Self-Acceptance of The Main Character in 45 Pounds (More or Less) By K.A Barson

This research is an analysis of the representation of body image and self-acceptance issues of the main character in 45 Pounds (More or Less) through the perspective of Hall’s representation theory. By applying Hall's theory of representation to this research, the researcher gains a deeper understanding of how the novel represents and reinforces cultural norms and values related to body image and self-acceptance, and how these representations shape the feelings and emotions of readers related to the discourse of body image and self-acceptance.This study uses a qualitative research method in which the data sources are primary and secondary data. The primary data are in the form of narrations, dialogues and statements in the novel by K.A Barson entitled 45 Pounds (More or Less) as the main focus in this research. The secondary data includes the historical data, psychological research and cultural studies on body image and self-acceptance. This research focuses on the representation of body image and self-acceptance issue and the critical position of the author through the sense or content in 45 Pounds (More or Less). The analysis results shows that these issues were predominantly influenced by the media’s portrayal of unrealistic beauty standards, leading characters to constantly compare themselves and feel dissatisfied. The author prioritized health over vanity and encouraged readers to look beyond societal pressures, promoting a deeper appreciation of one’s body and self-worth

Prettier Faces, Better Lives? The Impact of South Korean Facial Beauty Standards and Plastic Surgery on Women’s Lives in Frances Cha’s If I Had Your Face

Prettier Faces, Better Lives? The Impact of South Korean Facial Beauty Standards and Plastic Surgery on Women’s Lives in Frances Cha’s If I Had Your Face

I Have My Own Standards: Positive Body Image Among Early Adult K-Pop Fans

In recent years, K-Pop has become a global sensation, especially in Indonesia, where it has a massive fan base on social media. While K-Pop brings joy to many, it has also raised concerns about its impact on body image, especially among young fans known as K-Popers. This study explores how young women who are fans of K-Pop feel about their bodies. Through interviews and observations, three participants—Yerin, Joy, and Rose—shared their thoughts. Despite K-Pop's influence on beauty standards, these women have a positive body image. They feel good about themselves and focus on self-confidence rather than what others think. Their stories show how they navigate societal pressures and find acceptance for their bodies. By prioritizing self-esteem and support from friends, they maintain a positive outlook despite external beauty ideals. This research sheds light on how K-Pop fans view their bodies and offers insights into promoting body positivity. It's important for researchers and others to continue exploring these issues to create a more accepting environment for everyone to feel good about themselves.

Social Media Influence on Body Image and Cosmetic Surgery Considerations: A Systematic Review.

Social media platforms like Instagram (Meta Platforms, Inc.,Menlo Park, California, United States) and Snapchat(SnapInc., California, United States) significantly influence motivations for aesthetic surgery by promoting idealized and digitally enhanced images. Understanding their impact on body image dissatisfaction and acceptance of cosmetic procedures is crucial. A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines explored the link between social media, body image dissatisfaction, and cosmetic surgery. The review included 25 studies with 13,731 participants. Specific findings revealed that 70% of young adult women and 60% of young adult men report dissatisfaction with their bodies, leading to increased surgical considerations. The search process utilized databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, employing keywords like "cosmetic surgery," "social media," and "body image dissatisfaction" for articles published between January 2013 and December 2023. Both men and women show increased dissatisfaction with body parts, leading to surgical considerations. Social media's emphasis on visual aesthetics fosters body dissatisfaction and social appearance anxiety, especially through selfies. Cultural norms and celebrity influence further shape beauty perceptions. While social media promotes cosmetic surgery acceptance, ethical concerns about misleading advertisements, unrealistic beauty standards, and patient privacy persist. This underscores the need for strategies to promote healthy body image and informed choices in the digital age.

Appearance Dissatisfaction and Body Dysmorphic Disorder in the Dermatology Patient.

Dermatologists routinely see patients with inflammatory skin conditions and aesthetic concerns that involve substantial psychological comorbidity. However, most dermatologists do not receive formal training in this area, and many are unsure how to best help treat certain patients holistically. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a common and distressing psychiatric condition that disproportionately impacts dermatology patients, including patients living with chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis. BDD is characterized by preoccupation with nonexistent or minimally noticeable flaws in physical appearance that cause clinically significant distress or impairment in functioning. Adolescent populations may be particularly vulnerable to clinically significant body image dissatisfaction, including BDD, due to the high prevalence of acne and the pervasive role of social media platforms. The rise of social media may exacerbate body image issues through repetitive exposure to idealized and often unrealistic beauty standards. Though screening questionnaires can assist dermatologists in recognizing BDD, dermatologists must collaborate with mental health providers to provide comprehensive care to vulnerable patients, including adolescents.J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):545-550.&nbsp; doi:10.36849/JDD.8156.

Konsep Diri Pada Mahasiswa Perempuan Yang Mengalami Obesitas di Institut Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Kediri (Self-Concept of Female Students Experiencing Obesity at the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) of Kediri)

Obesity can decrease the quality of life for those affected. The issue of obesity in female students is not only related to their physical condition but also affects their psychological well-being. Meanwhile, self-concept encompasses an individual's mental representation of themselves, including both physical and psychological aspects. The aim of this study is to understand the self-concept of female students experiencing obesity and the factors influencing it. This research employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. Data were obtained through interviews with five female student subjects experiencing obesity. Subjects were selected using purposive sampling technique. The criteria for subjects in this study were active female students at the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) of Kediri, unmarried, with a body mass index (BMI) classification indicating obesity (BMI &gt; 25.0 according to WHO). The results of this study are as follows: (1) The self-concept of female students experiencing obesity at the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) of Kediri is that they can describe their current physical and psychological conditions. Slimness is considered the beauty standard in their environment, although the subjects have their own beauty standards and make efforts to achieve them. Obesity does not hinder them in carrying out daily activities but affects their health. Female students experiencing obesity receive negative treatment and comments from their surroundings. They feel sad, regretful, self-blaming, and self-loathing about having an obese body. They also experience anxiety related to their health and lack confidence when looking in the mirror. In interactions, they may appear relaxed or embarrassed, but they still fulfill their daily roles effectively. (2) Factors influencing the self-concept of female students experiencing obesity include body shape, nicknames, unsuccessful weight loss attempts, and social support.

Metamorphosis of a Tall and Ugly Woman Through Plastic Surgery During a 7-Year Period: An Analysis of The Life and Loves of a She-Devil.

The aim of this study is to analyze the process of metamorphosis of a tall and ugly woman through plastic surgery as depicted in The Life and Loves of a She-Devil (1983) of Fay Weldon. The process of plastic surgeries and the psychology of the protagonist of this novel were analyzed. A highly unattractive woman (Ruth, 185cm) takes revenge on her husband (Bobbo, 175cm) and his attractive lover (Mary Fisher, 160cm). To transform her appearance, Ruth remodels her jaw, has her teeth extracted (2-jaw surgery or facial contouring surgery), straightens and trims her nose (corrective rhinoplasty), flattens her cheekbones (reduction malarplasty), reduces her breast size (reduction mammoplasty), and shortens both her arms and legs (limb reduction surgery). Following the series of surgeries, Ruth ultimately made herself look identical to Mary Fisher, her husband's lover. She believes her inadequacies stem from her body's failure to meet societal beauty standards, prompting her decision to "remake" herself. She declares, "I will be what I want, not what God ordained." Ruth's aspiration is not to acquire a new face but to attain the face of Mary Fisher. When confronted with pain and harm, Ruth does not waver but acknowledges it. "Of course it hurts. Andersen's little mermaid wanted legs instead of a tail. And, like her, I welcome it. I don't complain." In this study, we derived insights into why patients who want to change their entire bodies undergo plastic surgery, what these patients really want, and patients' attitudes toward the pain caused by surgical procedures.

INTEGRASI TEORI STIGMA ERVING GOFFMAN TERHADAP KEADILAN SOSIAL BAGI “GOOD LOOKING” DAN DISKRIMINASI UNTUK “BAD LOOKING”

This study explores the phenomenon of "lookism" or appearance-based discrimination, which divides individuals into two primary groups: those regarded as attractive or "good looking" and those viewed as less attractive or "bad looking." It reveals that individuals perceived to meet the standards of being good-looking gain social and economic advantages through the "halo effect," wherein their appearance positively influences assessments of their professional and moral capabilities. In contrast, those perceived as less attractive or bad-looking encounter substantial disadvantages, including discrimination in job recruitment and promotion, as well as in social and institutional interactions. Utilizing a literature review with a qualitative research approach and an analytical framework based on Erving Goffman's Stigma Theory, this research demonstrates that physical appearance acts as a discrediting stigma, significantly impacting individuals' social identity and opportunities. The analysis emphasizes the integration of stigma into institutional structures and social practices, resulting in hidden yet systematic discrimination. Furthermore, the study explicates how the media and entertainment industries, through their portrayal of unrealistic beauty standards, reinforce societal beauty stereotypes. This influence on public perceptions heightens social pressure to conform to narrow beauty standards. From a sociological perspective, the unequal distribution of "beauty capital" creates persistent inequalities that affect not only economic opportunities but also political representation and power. This research underscores the need for social interventions and policies that reduce stigma and broaden the definition of beauty, which are crucial for dismantling power structures that perpetuate appearance-based discrimination and for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Through an informed and data-driven approach, this study provides essential insights into how social norms and values can be reformed to minimize "lookism" bias and enhance appreciation for human character diversity and complexity.

Dental Aesthetic Perception of Dentistry Students: A Literature Review

The appearance of a smile has increasingly become a factor that significantly impacts an individual's self-esteem and social context. Consequently, there is a growing desire for changes in the oral region to achieve what is considered an ideal smile, particularly in light of new beauty standards, where white and aligned teeth are deemed highly relevant. However, the concept of beauty is highly subjective, and sometimes dental standards do not align with patients' aesthetic desires. This study aims to evaluate the dental aesthetic perception of dentistry students through an integrative review. For the reference framework, we searched articles from the PubMed and Lilacs databases from the past five years, using the keywords "Dental esthetic," "dental student," and "Smiling," with the Boolean operator "and." After a thorough reading of all the articles, nine studies were selected. This review showed that the level of education and gender presented differences in the perception of dental aesthetics. However, students generally agree that aesthetics must be associated with the health and naturalness of the smile, following dental anatomy, dental alignment, buccal corridor, level of gingival exposure, and color.

Too old for photosharing?: (re) construing successful aging through select Instagram handles of Indian older female influencers

ABSTRACT Our standards of beauty have become sufficiently diverse. However, the representation of older women continues to be marginalized in mainstream media platforms, with the dominant ageist message revolving around the notion of ‘failure.’ For a woman, the ‘horrors’ of aging are felt more conspicuously, which renders her a devalued commodity. Within Indian society, aging is further contested by varied socio-cultural factors that prescribe an older woman to dress, behave and act according to her age and firmly reprimand any transgression from normative practices. This paper explains the complexities related to the prevailing aging/anti-aging discourses and discerns how older women influencers engage in challenging the negative stereotypes (like body shaming and sexageist derision) through the model of successful aging. Through select Instagram handles, the study analyses how the graying individuals collectively seek to direct or reclaim their power to forge alternative narratives/perspectives that encourage the aging/aged self to ‘be’ in her skin. The visual content from the Instagram profiles of Manjri Varde, Ravi Bala Sharma, Rajani Chandy, Seema Anand, and Usha Soman, who serve as representatives of redefining aging with purpose, has been critically analyzed. The results obtained have delineated how the social networking site has emerged as a space of resistance and empowerment- redefining beauty, desire, and agency within the contemporary youth-centric Indian culture and rendering possibilities that one can explore while growing old.

Pengaruh Penggunaan Make Up Wajah Masa Kini Terhadap Tingkat Kepercayaan Diri Pada Kalangan Mahasiswi Universitas Jember

Make up is a necessity for women to be able to appear beautiful in social life. Then make up becomes an inseparable aspect of her daily life. By using make-up, women in particular can be more confident in the belief that make-up is a tool for managing good impressions from other people. The purpose of this research is to find out what women do with the use of make-up to be able to receive all good impressions from the public and then how make-up makes them dependent and obsessed with being able to beautify themselves continuously. The method used is a qualitative method, data collection through in-depth interviews, observation and documentation. The data analysis techniques used are data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. This research uses the theory of object feminism from Julia Kristeva. The results of the research show that Jember University students who use make-up have reasons to get an impression from the general public in order to gain an image as a beautiful woman. This happens because of the rejection and discarding of the past that the perpetrators received because they were deemed not to meet existing beauty standards. So that it makes them take action to prove their position so that they can be accepted again and even get a perfect impression.

Influence of ethnicity on aesthetic preferences for lip characteristics in Caucasian male and female faces

BackgroundIn an era where globalization and social media significantly reshape beauty standards, it becomes imperative to delve into the subjectivity of beauty and attractiveness. The lips, a key element in facial aesthetics, not only contribute significantly to perceptions of attractiveness, but also have a profound impact on an individual's self-esteem. ObjectiveTo analyze the influence of ethnicity on aesthetic preferences for lip characteristics, among both male and female faces. Materials and MethodsStudy encompassed a sample of n=231 study participants (153 female, 78 male) with an average age of 23.2 ± 2.8 years, representing ethnicities such as African, Caucasian, Middle Eastern and South Asian. Participants were asked to rate a series of images showcasing various lip variants, providing insights into their aesthetic preferences. ResultsDemographic analysis revealed gender and ethnic variations in aesthetic preferences for all investigated lip parameters. Female participants were 2.42 times more likely than males to prefer no Cupid’s indentation on a female model (p=0.0019). ConclusionsThe study underscores the importance of understanding cultural influences on beauty standards and challenges the notion of a universal beauty ideal. The evolving role of social media trends, such as Cupid's bow indentation elimination, raises questions about the dynamic nature of aesthetic preferences among different ethnicities.