The concept of beauty is often subjective, but it is undeniable that there are certain physical features that society deems attractive. This has led to a rise in various beauty standards that have affected individuals' self-esteem, particularly those belonging to minorities or those who don't fit into society's prescribed ideal. In recent times, the beauty industry has grown tremendously, making it more accessible than ever before. As a result, many people feel pressured to conform to societal expectations of what constitutes attractiveness.
The Beauty Industry
In contemporary times, the pressure to look good has been heightened by the availability of cosmetics and fashion products. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok promote these products, creating an illusion that they hold the key to attaining perfection. Many teenagers see their favorite celebrities and influencers using them, which makes them desire such items for themselves.
This trend has made many individuals become obsessed with looking perfect, leading to mental health issues like eating disorders. Such preoccupations create a divide among friends because some may be able to afford the products while others cannot. It also creates social stigma where people perceive those who do not use makeup as unattractive or ugly. This phenomenon has created a cycle whereby individuals try to buy expensive items just to gain acceptance from their peers, yet they end up getting caught up in debt and other financial problems.
Impact on Teenagers
Teenagers often experience body image issues due to the unrealistic standard set by the beauty industry. They view themselves as less desirable if they fail to live up to society's ideals. This leads to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even suicide attempts. The pressure to fit into these standards can cause teenagers to engage in risky behaviors such as plastic surgery or excessive dieting.
It can lead to bullying incidences because others will judge based on looks instead of personality traits.
The impact on teenagers is widespread, affecting both males and females.
Girls are more vulnerable than boys since the media tends to sexualize women more than men.
Young girls are encouraged to wear revealing clothes or participate in photo shoots that objectify them. While boys face peer pressure to look muscular and athletic, which can lead to steroid abuse. Some even engage in dangerous activities like tanning beds and injecting facial fillers to achieve a certain look.
Romantic Desirability
People with high levels of attractiveness tend to be more popular among their peers and more likely to date, making them more desirable romantically.
This does not guarantee lasting relationships since beauty fades over time. Therefore, some individuals may be more attractive initially but later lose appeal once they age or gain weight. It also creates the illusion that one must have perfect features to find love, putting undue pressure on teenagers who feel insecure about their appearance.
Beauty ideals play a significant role in society's social acceptance and romantic desirability among teenagers. They create an unrealistic standard that leads many people to engage in unhealthy behaviors for self-improvement. As such, society needs to adopt healthier body image messages by promoting positive self-esteem rather than physical perfection.
Parents should teach their children to appreciate natural beauty instead of relying too much on societal expectations.
How do beauty ideals affect social acceptance and romantic desirability among teenagers?
Beauty ideals can have a significant impact on social acceptance and romantic desirability among teenagers as they often strive for perfection and conformity. In many cases, teens with unconventional looks may feel left out or isolated from their peers, while those who meet traditional beauty standards are more likely to be accepted and sought after by others of the same age group.