Report 1

Running head: STRAINS OF A NEGATIVE SELF-IMAGE 1
The Physical and Mental Strain of a Negative Self-image in Men
Daniel Gerald Green
Gregory L. Falls
Global Connections
December 9th, 2019

STRAINS OF A NEGATIVE SELF-IMAGE 2
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ...……………………………………………………………………… 2
Abstract ....………………………………………………………………………………. 3
Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………... 4
Limitations ………………………………………………………………………………. 5
Literature Review ……………………………………………………………………….. 6
Discussion ……………………………………………………………………………….. 9
Body Image …………………………………………………………………….... 9
Globally ………………………………………………………………………… 10
Historically …………………………………………………………………….. 12
Drugs …………………………………………………………………………... 14
Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery ………………………………………………….. 16
Mental Illness and Eating Disorders …………………………………………... 18
Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………... 20
References …………………………………………………………………………….... 22
Appendix A …………………………………………………………………………….. 25
Appendix B …………………………………………………………………………….. 29
Abstract
Exercise is the epitome of health and wellness. Although this is true in some
cases, men take this idea to the extreme and strive for an unrealistic and unattainable
physique. Furthermore, these people become obsessed with their physique and how they
look in the mirror, establishing a negative body image. Men with negative self-images
are more prone to depression, eating disorders, and the likelihood of using surgical and
drug enhancements. Men obtain unrealistic ideas of the “perfect physique” through
various media platforms, including social media and the silver screen. The ideal
physique has changed throughout time and varies throughout the world. Obtaining a
negative self-image through social media strains one’s mental and physical health. Men
are prone to using drugs like anabolic steroids and Synthol oil to enhance their physique
and damaging their health, wellbeing; A negative self-image also pushes men to use
surgical procedures like cosmetic and plastic surgery in order to amplify their physique.
Furthermore, men who obsess over their physique are more likely to be diagnosed with
body dysfunctional disorder, depression, and inhibit eating disorders. Men who obtain a
body image issue put stress on their physical and mental health.
The Mental and Physical Strain of a Negative Self-Image in Men
While the concept of body image is prominently seen in women, this idea remains
a significant issue in men as well. The idea of “the perfect body” takes a toll on the
mental health of anyone. “Under ideal circumstances, men develop realistic body
images” (Mirror-Mirror, 2019). This is not always the case, as men develop unrealistic
body images from social media platforms and influencers. Platforms, including social
media and toy companies, give children and teenagers alike unrealistic ideas of the
perfect body. These misconceptions lead growing children an idea of the perfect body in
order to be successful. This leads to men to obtain unrealistic goals for their height,
weight, and physical appearance.
“Negative body image (or body dissatisfaction) involves feelings of shame,
anxiety, and self-consciousness” (National Eating Disorder Association, 2018). One can
obtain a negative body image from social media platforms that threatens one’s physical
and mental health. Men threaten their physical health with the use of Steroids, Synthol
oil, and cosmetic surgery in order to increase their self-esteem. They also threaten their
mental health as the perception of the “perfect body” makes men “more likely to suffer
from feelings of depression, isolation, low self-esteem, and eating disorders.” (National
Eating Disorder Association, 2018). Though women overshadow the issue, men with a
negative self-image are more prone to depression, eating disorders, and the likelihood of
using surgical or drug enhancements to their bodies.

Limitations
Though the author holds a personal bias to the issue through personal
experience, he has done his best to provide the most relevant information and synthesis
without a bias lense. The author chose to exclude certain topics and focus on others as
he views the issue to be overlooked in certain areas. The limitations are listed below:
Firstly, this research paper will not discuss the overwhelming body image seen in
women. Though this is a major issue in women, the author feels that the issue in men is
not as prominent and needs more recognition. The extensive research that could be
done on this issue would take away the primary focus off of men and the effects of a
negative body image.
In addition, though a negative body image is a global issue that both women and
men face, this research paper will primarily focus on the United States, South Korea,
and countries in South America. This is a major issue around the world, but the author
chose to have a narrow scope for more detailed and focused research on the following
topic.
Lastly, body image has been a major issue throughout history dating back to the
ancient Greeks and the Olympics. Throughout history, ancient greeks have influenced
other time periods to build the men’s physique, this research paper primarily focuses on
the 21st century. The rise of social media platforms helped create the narrative to build
the men’s physique and establish the perfect physique. The author narrowed down his
research to the 21st century to establish more prominent research that correlates to
present-day issues.
Literature Review
In 2018, Healthline released an article revealing the rising issue of body image in
men and its effects on teenagers' mental and physical health. It states that the issue is
"just as complex" as a women's body image but is shadowed by women's body image
issues (Legg & Chandler, 2018). In the article, the author sites a research study done by
UCLA, highlighting the increase of body image issues compared to the 1970s. The rise of
the issue evolved throughout time as sources of media increased. The issue became
more prominent as the global community evolved to a more muscular and fit male
shape.
In an article, How men's perfect body types have changed throughout history
by Amber Petty, she highlights the rise of the ideology of the "perfect male shape"
through the description of ancient greeks. She states that the greek valued "their ideals
of beauty and captured them in works of art we still enjoy today" (Petty). The ideal
shape for a man valued the lean and muscular look and was not fond of the idea of men
"feasting away" (Haynes, 2015). Men were inspired by the body of Hercules and other
heroes of Greek mythology. Though these physiques were well admired and pursued by
thousands of men through generations, these physiques often were unrealistic and
unattainable, much like the physiques present day.

In the book, Looking Good: Male Body Image in Modern America, the ideal
physique in the Gilded Age (the late 1800s- early 1900s) was a man with a big belly. In
that moment of history, it was fashionable to compare one's belly to the amount of
money someone possessed. The more money someone has in possession, the better they
are. "Plump bellies were equated with plump wallet" (Luciano, 2001). This was the ideal
shape for men rather than a lean and muscular physique, which portrays one to be not
financially supported. The "Fat Man's Club" was a popular site around the United States,
and men all over the country strived to be apart of this club. This would be "the last time
that a big belly would be the height of attractiveness" (Petty).
According to the book, Looking Good: Male Body Image in Modern America,
the introduction of Hollywood introduced a new ideal look: a slim, lean physique. With
the introduction of Hollywood to United States citizens, the average male strived to look
like the men on the silver screen. "Hollywood was symbolized by movie stars who
radiated youth, good health, and sex appeal" (Luciano, 2001).
BBC released an article that highlights Jack Lalanne's life and his influence in
the fitness industry. According to BBC, he opened his first gym in 1938, and his first
season of The Jack Lalanne Show debuted in 1951. Jack Lalanne changed the "perfect
body" once again and influenced others to strive to be healthy and fit. "He was a
'pioneer' who brought health clubs and gyms to the masses, says Philip Haberstro from
the National Association for Health and Fitness" (Vaidyanathan, 2011). He inspired
young men and aging adults alike to strive for a healthy lifestyle.
In the article, Breaking the Physical Barrier: Steve Reeves and the Promotion of
Hercules by Jan Todd, she highlights the impact on Hollywood and the general
population of Steeve Reeves' Hercules. Steeve Reeves changed the way Hollywood actors
needed to look to be an A-list actor. This Italian picture "marked the first wave of a
cultural shift in the appreciation of the male physique on the big screen" (Todd, 2014).
The article also states that actors like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger got
their influence by this picture and this actor who aided to revolutionize the men's
physique.
Britannica released an article that discusses Arnold Schwarzenegger's life and
describes how he influenced the fitness industry and the general population. The article
goes into detail about his accomplishments and most importantly his books. In another
article describing ideal physiques throughout periods, Arnold "brought in a new wave of
heightened masculinity where hitting the gym hard made you more of a man" (Petty).
Through his movies and his books, he helped push for a more masculine and muscular
physique to the general population and fitness industry alike.
In an article from Healthline, it describes the causes of body image issues in the
modern age. It claims that media sources and the silver screen are the leading cause of
the issue. It sources fitness social media influencers create an unrealistic idea of the
ideal physique. The silver screen also pushes this idea of a perfect physique to younger
audiences. "Stars like Hugh Jackman and Chris Pratt pack on muscle to transform into
superheroes to join the likes of Dwayne Johnson and Mark Wahlberg" (Legg &
Chandler, 2018). "This increases male public interest in obtaining their recipes for
chiseled abs and bulging biceps" (Legg & Chandler, 2018). This issue increases and leads
to several physical and mental issues.
According to an article about men's body image issues, it points out that this idea
of a "perfect physique" creates unrealistic goals and often leads to depression and eating
disorders. According to Mirror Mirror, Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia are
present in 25% of teenagers nationwide, and 20% die from anorexia. In teens, the
leading causes of anorexia and bulimia are body image issues that are created from
social media and other media sources.
Discussion
Body Image
Body image has been a reoccurring and prominent issue in men. "Body image is
defined as one's thoughts, perceptions, and attitudes about their physical appearance"
(National Eating Disorder Association, 2018). The human body continues to evolve over
thousands of years, and the ideal physique is an idea that weighs over millions of people
daily. Inside the mind of millions of people, men and women alike dream of a physique
he or she cannot obtain, creating unrealistic goals. This mindset often leads to a person
obsessing over a physique he cannot have and leads to the perishment of their mental
and physical health. "The body image men have is different from the body image women
have. While we hear a lot about the importance of a healthy body image in women, a
healthy male body image is also important" (Mirror-Mirror, 2019). Media platforms
play a prominent role in how men look at their bodies. Social media and the big screen
show teenagers men who sacrifice more than their physical state in order to have great
physiques. These physiques are often unattainable, and most actors and social media
influencers are often gifted with great genetics or under the influence of steroids. These
influences leave growing teenagers with an idea of a "perfect physique." "The problem
goes beyond a college guy hitting the gym to try to get a date: 90 percent of boys in
middle and high school exercise at least occasionally with the specific goal of 'bulking
up'" (Healthline, 2018). Growing teenagers go to the gym and strive for unrealistic goals
due to the influence of social media and Hollywood. These boys often leave the gym
disappointed and discouraged, which could lead to mental health issues and body image
issues in the future.
Globally
Around the globe, body image is an idea that affects millions of people. No matter
the culture or social norms, body image weighs over many, and the effects are evident.
In the United States, the muscle man is slowly declining. Men are not paying enough
attention to their weight or physical appearance as men did ten years ago in the early
2000s. The "dad bod" is a rising phenomenon and has made many appearances in
Hollywood, including Avengers Endgame. In an article published by The Washington
Post in 2015, Justin Moyer stated the following:
"'The dad bod is a nice balance between a beer gut and working out,' Mackenzie Pearson
wrote in an essay in the Odyssey. ‘The dad bod says, 'I go to the gym occasionally, but I
also drink heavily on the weekends and enjoy eating eight slices of pizza at a time.' It is
not an overweight guy, but it is not one with washboard abs, either.' The takeaway:
While we all love a sculpted guy, there is just something about the dad bod that makes
boys seem more human, natural, and attractive" (Justin Moyer, 2015).
Moyer states that this phenomenon makes men more accepting of their bodies, but
pretty soon, this phenomenon is going to be out of style, and body image will again be a
significant concern.
In Eastern Asia, body image is still a prominent issue, but the idea of their dream
physique is much different compared to around the world. "In South Korea, teenagers
aspire for a physique, much like their favorite K-pop stars. While masculinity has long
been a prized trait in the nation's traditional and highly patriarchal society, thanks to
the latest generation of K-pop stars and celebrities, the husky, angular leading men of
South Korean dramas from the 1990s and 2000s have been replaced by a new male
ideal: the 'pretty boy'" (Crystal Tai, 2017). Instead of a muscular and hulking physique,
they aspire for a lean physique through calisthenics. Though to Koreans, the gym is not
a popular source for their dream physique. Instead, they resort to their money and their
plastic surgeons. "South Korea boasts the highest number of cosmetic procedures per
capita worldwide, but beauty standards in Korean society are not the ‘draconian’
practices that many news outlets portray them to be" (Alexa Lee, 2019). This
phenomenon is not just seen in South Korea but has spread throughout Eastern Asia.
In South America, most countries are developing countries, and many people are
below the poverty line. That does not mean many citizens do not view body image as a
significant issue. Much like the United States in the last 20th century, a muscular
physique is something several men strive for. The gym is not the only source of getting
incredible physiques as they see from the golden age of bodybuilding. Unlike citizens
from Eastern Asia, they cannot resort to their wallets for anabolic steroids, nor can they
afford adequate plastic surgery. Instead, they resort to Synthol oil. "Synthol is a
substance used by bodybuilders as a temporary implant which is injected deeply into the
muscle. The enlargement effects are immediate. Synthol is used in small groups of
muscles to enlarge their volume (for example, triceps, biceps, deltoids, muscles of the
calf)" (General and Transplant Surgery of the Medical University, 2009). People resort
to this so they can look better for other people and boost their confidence and
self-esteem.
Historically
Dating back to Ancient Greece, the human body was the ultimate canvas. The
human body was seen as art. They valued a lean yet muscular physique. "They were not
interested in any big guys feasting away" (Petty). Greek mythology shared stories about
muscular heroes who save the world and ultimately pressured people to strive to look
like these heroes. The Ancient Greeks valued "their ideals of beauty and captured them
in works of art we still enjoy today" (Petty). Men were inspired by the body of Hercules
and other heroes of Greek mythology. These physiques were sculpted out and well
admired. Though these physiques were admirable, they were often very unrealistic or
unachievable.
Throughout history, the masculine physique had a muscular but lean look, but in
the gilded age, men valued a bigger physique. It was famous for a man to have a big
stomach to represent how good he ate and how much money was in his pocket. "Plump
bellies were equated with plump wallet" (Luciano, 2001). The "Fat Man's Club" was
something every young man wanted to join and was very popular. Someone must be
over two-hundred pounds and of course, have a big belly. This trend would be "the last
time that a big belly would be the height of attractiveness" (Petty).
In the early 20th century, Hollywood was introduced to the world, and the ideal
physique quickly shifted from a big, hefty physique to a skinny, lean physique.
"Hollywood was symbolized by movie stars who radiated youth, good health, and sex
appeal" (Luciano, 2001). This idea quickly changed with the 1958 film, Hercules starring
Steve Reeves. Steve Reeves introduced a look that changed the silver screen forever.
This Italian picture "marked the first wave of a cultural shift in the appreciation of the
male physique on the big screen" (Todd, 2014). Steve Reeves introduced a muscular and
“hulky” physique and later influenced actors like Sylvester Stalone and Arnold
Schwarzenegger. Jack Lalanne changed the way regular citizens lived their lives. Jack
Lalanne was a fitness expert and called the "Godfather of Fitness." He was the host of
the Jack Lalanne Show and showed average citizens a new way to live. "He was a
"pioneer" who brought health clubs and gyms to the masses, says Philip Haberstro from
the National Association for Health and Fitness" (Vaidyanathan, 2011). He inspired
young men and aging adults alike to strive for a healthy lifestyle.
1970 marked the start of the golden age of modern bodybuilding with Arnold
Schwarzenegger stepping on stage and winning his first "Mr. Olympia" title. Arnold
"brought in a new wave of heightened masculinity where hitting the gym hard made you
more of a man" (Petty). He wrote numerous books and starred in many documentaries,
including Pumping Iron, that contributed to his influence on growing teenagers and
aspiring bodybuilders. The golden age of bodybuilding introduced many fitness legends
like Ronnie Coleman and Dorian Yates, who influenced generations of young men. In an
interview with a local Virginian bodybuilder, Novian Barnard stated:
“Some of the greats give me major motivation and inspiration to be a little bit
bigger and be a little bit better, but it did set me up for unrealistic goals. I didn’t
learn to embrace myself and embrace my genetic code yet, so it gave me a set
back to look up to some of those guys” (Barnard, 2019).
The modern age takes inspiration from bodybuilders from the late 20th century.
Fitness social media influencers create an unrealistic idea of the ideal physique. The
silver screen pushes this idea of a perfect physique to younger audiences. "Stars like
Hugh Jackman and Chris Pratt pack on muscle to transform into superheroes to join the
likes of Dwayne Johnson and Mark Wahlberg" (Legg & Chandler, 2018). Social media
influencers play a major role in how many people look at their own bodies. "This
increases male public interest in obtaining their recipes for chiseled abs and bulging
biceps" (Legg & Chandler, 2018). These media platforms push kids to have unrealistic
goals and leads to many health issues. Near the end of the 2010s, the “dad bod” is rising
in popularity and seen in social media. The idea that a man can be muscular and fat has
become an ideal physique for many people.
Drugs
Many teenagers and young men aspire for the physiques of Greek gods and
bodybuilders from the 20th century and become more prone to the use of anabolic
steroids and Synthol oil. Men with a negative self-image want to become muscular and
lean as fast as possible. They do not view their workouts or diet as a priority and want to
have an edge. They resort to the use of anabolic steroids. "Anabolic steroids stimulate
growth in many other types of tissues, especially bone and muscle" (Anderson, 2018).
An article about the connection between body image and steroids states the following:
“Standardized measures of body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, drive for bulk,
bulimia, self-esteem, depression, maturity fears, and perfectionism as well as
questionnaires designed to measure attitudes toward steroids, and rates of
steroid use were administered in a manner that encouraged disclosure.
Bodybuilders reported significantly greater body dissatisfaction, with a high drive
for bulk, high drive for thinness, and increased bulimic tendencies than either of
the other athletic groups. In addition, bodybuilders reported significant
elevations on measures of perfectionism, ineffectiveness, and lower self-esteem.
They also reported the greatest use of anabolic steroids and most liberal attitudes
towards using steroids. Steroid users reported that the most significant reason for
using steroids was to improve looks" (Department of Psychiatry Ottawa Civic
Hospital, 1995)
These people strive to big, lean, and disregard the health issues that come along
with the use of steroids. "In the U.S., they are classified as a Schedule III Controlled
Substances due to the possibility of serious adverse effects and a high potential for
abuse" (Anderson, 2018). They would rather be big and lean for a short amount of time
rather than be healthy and natural. The use of anabolic steroids has adverse side-effects
and could ultimately be fatal, depending on the dosages.
When a person cannot afford anabolic steroids or cosmetic surgery, they resort to
the use of Synthol oil. "Synthol is a substance used by bodybuilders as a temporary
implant which is injected deeply into the muscle. The enlargement effects are
immediate. Synthol is used in small groups of muscles to enlarge their volume (for
example, triceps, biceps, deltoids, muscles of the calf)" (General and Transplant Surgery
of the Medical University, 2009). The use of Synthol oil gives someone immediate
results and does not require anyone to go to the gym. The use of Synthol oil is also very
unhealthy and could damage someone's physical health. "Some serious drawbacks can
be visible while using Synthol. The muscles deform and become unnaturally shaped.
The side effects of Synthol are manifold, and they can also cause damage of nerves, oil
embolic of the pulmonary, occlusion of the pulmonary artery, myocardial infarction,
cerebral stroke, and infectious complications" (General and Transplant Surgery of the
Medical University, 2009). The use of Synthol oil and steroids does more harm to the
human body than it helps someone. The rise of the use of these products is due to the
rise of teenagers and young men with a negative self-image. Men use these products in
order to increase their self-esteem by looking better and performing in the weight room.
Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery
Fitness models and some Hollywood actors all have two similar characteristics: a
significant platform and a fabulous physique. These people use their platform to portray
only the book cover. The general population does not see what these people are doing in
order to look this way. Teenagers look at these people and think that they need to look
this way in order to look successful. They look at GI Joe dolls and think that they need to
be this way in order to save the world or get the girl. "The ideal male body is becoming
more and more difficult for men to achieve, and these higher standards are taking their
toll on the average guy. Look at GI Joe action figures. Extrapolate their measurements to
human size, and their bodies become almost impossible by real-life standards"
(National Post, 2004).
The idea that being bigger and stronger to be successful carries over teenagers
and young men everywhere, and most people do not have the motivation to go to the
gym seven days a week. Instead, they spend their money on cosmetics in order to look a
certain way. Some men have become obsessed with going to the doctor's office rather
than their local gym. Rodrigo Alves is a Brazillian-British who is a social media
influencer and not in a good way. Rodrigo Alves is commonly known as the "human Ken
doll." He spoke about how he wants to be "perfect" and has had many procedures are
done to his face and the rest of his body. "Rodrigo Alves, known as 'the human Ken doll,'
has spent more than $750,000 on 72 cosmetic surgeries to achieve a distinctive
appearance" (Landsverk, 2019). He made this a trend around social media and the
amount of men aspiring to be like him continues to grow.
Not many people go into extremes with the use of cosmetic surgery in order to
look perfect. Most people get procedures in major muscle groups in order to increase
self-esteem. An article regarding self-image and cosmetic surgery states the following:
“There's more to this sea change in the male self-image. There is a growing
demand for cosmetics and hair transplants. There's more male liposuction.
Facelifts. Pec implants. Calf implants. Breast implants. Male breast reductions.
Penile implants. Steroid use. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which
includes Canadian surgeons, reports that 11 percent of all cosmetic surgeries are
performed on men. Between 1997 and 1999, male cosmetic surgery increased by
87 percent for liposuction, 15 percent for eyelid, and 15 percent for a facelift"
(Stainsby, 2001).
This has become a trend that continues to grow and does not seem like it will
slow down anytime soon. People get these procedures done because they do not have a
positive self-image. They criticize themselves and find a solution through these
procedures. These procedures, though, are detrimental to someone's health. According
to Healthline, the side-effects of cosmetic surgery include hematoma, seroma, infection,
nerve damage, and many more (Hannan, 2019). The side-effects greatly outweigh the
temporary boost of self-esteem.
Mental Illness and Eating Disorders
A negative self-image does much physical damage to the human body. Though
they may be severe or life-threatening, the damage it does to a person mentally could
also be life-threatening. When someone leaves the gym with no confidence in their
physique, it could lead to many mental illnesses and disorders. A person could be
obsessed with their physique, and when it is not what they want it to be, they could go
into a depressive state and become obsessed with unattainable or unrealistic goals. This
could create a chain reaction, and someone could be on the verge of being diagnosed
with dysfunctional body disorder or BDD. An article regarding the definition and
common causes of BDD states:
"BDD is a body-image disorder characterized by a persistent and intrusive
preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in one's appearance. People with
BDD can dislike any part of their body, although they often find fault with their
hair, skin, nose, chest, or stomach. In reality, a perceived defect may be only a
slight imperfection or nonexistent. But for someone with BDD, the flaw is
significant and prominent, often causing severe emotional distress and
difficulties in daily functioning" (Anxiety and Depression Association of America,
2013).
These people are obsessed with not only their physique but with the structure of
their faces and many other parts of their bodies. "In the United States, BDD occurs in
about 2.5% in males, and 2.2 % of females. BDD often begins to occur in adolescents
12-13 years of age" (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). BDD is ubiquitous and is a
severe problem in teenagers. BDD could also lead to many other mental illnesses.
"People with BDD commonly also suffer from anxiety disorders such as social anxiety
disorder, as well as other disorders such as depression, eating disorders, or
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)" (Anxiety and Depression Association of America,
2013). Depression over someone's self-image could lead to eating disorders like bulimia
and anorexia.
Men who are lean and muscular are all over social media and the big screen.
Teenagers look up to these people and often compare their physiques to them. And in an
effort to look a certain way, a person could pick up unhealthy trends or traits. It is not
uncommon for someone to eat less food in order to lose weight. There is always
someone who becomes obsessed with their weight and how they look and begin to skip
entire meals in order to lose weight and look slimmer. "People who experience high
levels of body dissatisfaction feel their bodies are flawed in comparison to others, and
these folks are more likely to suffer from feelings of depression, isolation, low
self-esteem, and eating disorders. While there is no single cause of eating disorders,
research indicates that body dissatisfaction is the best-known contributor to the
development of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa" (National Eating Disorders
Association, 2018). Teenagers become so obsessed with their physiques and physical
appearance; they adopt unhealthy habits. "Nearly one-third of teenage boys use
unhealthy weight control behaviors such as skipping meals, fasting, smoking cigarettes,
vomiting, and taking laxatives" (Neumark- Sztainer, 2005). A negative self-image could
be one of the leading causes of bulimia and anorexia. Obtaining a negative self-image
from social media could threaten one's mental health.
Conclusion
Throughout thousands of years, the human body and the idea of the perfect
physique has evolved. Thousands of teenagers go through their day with the worry that
they aren’t big enough or lean enough. Through the early 21st century, media has
evolved and has a larger platform than ever before. Through the evolution of social
media, the body image issue among men rapidly grew. Men with a negative self-image
are more prone to depression, eating disorders, and the likelihood of using surgical or
drug enhancements to their bodies.
Body image issues among teenagers and young men their mental and physical
health in danger. A growing desire for the perfect physique has led to men wanting a
bigger chest but a smaller waist. Social media platforms input this idea along with
implementing unrealistic goals. Someone could become obsessed with their physique
and could resort to an easier resource in order to be bigger or stronger from cosmetics
or drugs like Synthol oil and anabolic steroids. Rather than putting in the work in the
gym and understanding that there is a process of obtaining one’s goal, they take
shortcuts and put their physical health in danger.
When someone becomes obsessed with their own physique, one could suffer from
depression and body dysfunctional disorder. Rather than inputting a proper diet,
someone could resort to not eating at all or skipping meals in order to lose weight or
increase fat loss. These actions could increase your risk of eating disorders like bulimia
and anorexia. Someone becomes obsessed with their physical appearance and puts their
mental health at risk.
Fitness and exercise are beneficial for one’s health and ultimately create a better
lifestyle for someone. With good nutrition and well-rounded goals, someone could reach
a peak for their health. Although this is a major concept in the 21st century, the
influence of social media puts a major strain on how men view themselves. This idea
leads to men obsessing over their physique and resorting to shortcuts. This obsession
over someone’s body image strains the mental and physical health of someone.
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20). Painful muscle fibrosis following Synthol injections in a bodybuilder: A case
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ge_concerns_among_anabolic_androgenic_steroid_users_contemplators_and_co
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aviors_associated_with_body_dissatisfaction_and_disordered_eating.
Legg, T. J. (2018, October 18). With Superheroes Comes the Pressure of Unrealistic
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Appendix A
The Mirror of a BodyBuilder: Author interview with Novian Barnard, a bodybuilder, at
Starbucks on November 21st, 2019
1. Could you give me a brief background of yourself and tell me what you do for a
living?
“I grew up in North Carolina and enlisted into the Navy when I was 19. I enlisted
because I wanted a place to feel welcome and wanted a family. I was stationed in
North Carolina for a few years and got into some trouble, to say the least. I have
casually competed in some Men’s Physique Shows. I’ve won a few here and there
and got some money from it. But I wouldn’t claim to be a competitor because it’s
not what I want to do.”
2. How long have you been lifting?
“I started lifting because when I joined the navy, I got into some trouble. I kept
waking up hungover and I knew that wasn’t who I wanted to be. I didn’t want to
be the guy waking up next to random people or waking up outside. So I started
lifting in 2014 because I wanted to occupy myself and not get into trouble. So I
began putting goals together and I ended up falling in love with it. And I still
enjoy it today.”
3. Has body image has been a recurring problem for you?
“No, but I did have an issue when I first started lifting. I looked up to Simeon
Panda, as you can see I’m wearing his merchandise. But yeah, I looked at him and
looked in the mirror. And I wanted to look like that. I went into the gym and
wanted to look like him. I put together workouts to look like him. But I ended up
realizing I had to learn what my genetic code was and what its capable of doing. I
realized you can’t compare yourself to other people, you just gotta compare your
progress. Even some of the greats give me major motivation and inspiration to be
a little bit bigger and be a little bit better, but it did set me up for unrealistic
goals. I didn’t learn to embrace myself and embrace my genetic code yet, so it
gave me a set back to look up to some of those guys.”
4. Do you think guys go into bodybuilding because of a negative self-image?
“I don’t think it’s the sole reason but I do think it plays a role in why people go
into bodybuilding. I think that people want to have better physiques and in doing
so they go into bodybuilding, and I think that that creates a body image issue.
Because a lot of people obsess over their physique and do whatever it takes to
make it better in doing so.”
5. Due to this issue have you thought about the use of steroids?
“I’ve definitely thought about it and I know a lot of guys who get into steroids. But
in all honesty, it’s too expensive and I think I’m at the point where I realized I
don't need it.”
6. Do you think steroid use is a major issue in the fitness industry?
“I don't think it’s an issue but it’s definitely present. I think that people feel the
need to take this stuff in order to have an edge on other people to look better on
social media or during a show or whatever it is. They feel the need to look better
and take this risk in order to win or build their fanbase. I personally don’t agree
with it but I don't think you can do anything about it. I do think this is an issue
for other people because you got kids looking at these guys and thinking ‘oh he’s
so big, I need to look like that’. And their building these goals based on guys who
are on something.”
7. What role do you think social media plays in the body image issue?
“You don’t even need to finish that sentence, I think social media is one of the
biggest if not the biggest role in body image. Because you got guys like Bradley
Martyn doing stuff with a lot of weight and all these girls and he’s successful. And
you got guys looking at him and thinking that they need to look this way in order
to be successful.”
8. Have social media influencers played a role in your life and how you view your
self-image?
“I mean yeah because I got guys following me and stuff and I try to be an
influence. But I got guys like Simeon Panda and I wanted to look like him at one
point. I look at other guys and compare them to myself. So I do think they play a
role in my life.”
9. Do you personally have an idea of the perfect physique? If so, where did you get it
from?
“If I had to choose one, it’d have to be Simeon. If I wanted to just build mass and
get as big as I can, I’d stop when I was as big as Simeon. I look at him and I look
at his qualities and I think that what his genetic code has, it’s perfect. But some of
the greats give me major motivation and inspiration to be a little bit bigger and be
a little bit better, but it did set me up for unrealistic goals. I didn’t learn to
embrace myself and embrace my genetic code yet, so it gave me a set back to look
up to some of those guys.”
10. Do you think the idea of a perfect physique creates a problem for growing
teenagers and bodybuilders?
“I do because instead of teaching people to learn and fall in love with their own
genetics and physique. People on social media endorse their own physique and
just tell their followers to ‘try this workout to get big.’ But people don’t realize
these guys are genetically gifted or on gear. And I think that creating this idea is
terrible for guys who go to the gym because the goals that they make are
unrealistic. And they could resort to shortcuts and at a young age, that’s very
bad.”
- Novian Barnard
Appendix B
United States Eating Disorder Statistics

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Running head: STRAINS OF A NEGATIVE SELF-IMAGE 1

The Physical and Mental Strain of a Negative Self-image in Men

Daniel Gerald Green

December 9​th​, 2019

Table of Contents ...……………………………………………………………………… 2

Literature Review ……………………………………………………………………….. 6

Body Image …………………………………………………………………….... 9

Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery ………………………………………………….. 16

Mental Illness and Eating Disorders …………………………………………... 18

The Mental and Physical Strain of a Negative Self-Image in Men

weight, and physical appearance.

“Negative body image (or body dissatisfaction) involves feelings of shame,

using surgical or drug enhancements to their bodies.

negative body image.

unattainable, much like the physiques present day.

that a big belly would be the height of attractiveness" (Petty).

radiated youth, good health, and sex appeal" (Luciano, 2001).

Britannica released an article that discusses Arnold Schwarzenegger's life and

physique to the general population and fitness industry alike.

to several physical and mental issues.

social media and other media sources.

issues in the future.

Hollywood, including ​Avengers Endgame.​ In an article published by The Washington

Post in 2015, Justin Moyer stated the following:

time that a big belly would be the height of attractiveness" (Petty).

interview with a local Virginian bodybuilder, Novian Barnard stated:

back to look up to some of those guys” (Barnard, 2019).

become an ideal physique for many people.

bulimia, self-esteem, depression, maturity fears, and perfectionism as well as

questionnaires designed to measure attitudes toward steroids, and rates of

steroid use were administered in a manner that encouraged disclosure.

Bodybuilders reported significantly greater body dissatisfaction, with a high drive

the other athletic groups. In addition, bodybuilders reported significant

elevations on measures of perfectionism, ineffectiveness, and lower self-esteem.

using steroids was to improve looks" (Department of Psychiatry Ottawa Civic

and could ultimately be fatal, depending on the dosages.

the use of Synthol oil. "Synthol is a substance used by bodybuilders as a temporary

embolic of the pulmonary, occlusion of the pulmonary artery, myocardial infarction,

Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

(National Post, 2004).

has spent more than $750,000 on 72 cosmetic surgeries to achieve a distinctive

amount of men aspiring to be like him continues to grow.

procedures. These procedures, though, are detrimental to someone's health. According

to Healthline, the side-effects of cosmetic surgery include hematoma, seroma, infection,

temporary boost of self-esteem.

Mental Illness and Eating Disorders

common causes of BDD states:

"BDD is a body-image disorder characterized by a persistent and intrusive

preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in one's appearance. People with

significant and prominent, often causing severe emotional distress and

difficulties in daily functioning" (Anxiety and Depression Association of America,

disorder, as well as other disorders such as depression, eating disorders, or

obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)" (Anxiety and Depression Association of America,

research indicates that body dissatisfaction is the best-known contributor to the

development of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa" (National Eating Disorders

from social media could threaten one's mental health.

drug enhancements to their bodies.

December 9th, 2019

Hollywood, including Avengers Endgame. In an article published by The Washington

Starbucks on November 21st, 2019