Linda Smolak, a psychologist at Kenyon College in Ohio, is co-editor of the book. Thompson says that education at the onset of body image can be a huge help for children. A crucial age is the range from 6 to 8 years old. Media, including the music industry, are targeting younger girls and boys. They are now filtering down to boys, too, Thompson says.
Prevention includes media literacy and learning to be informed consumers.
We need to let children know that it's unrealistic to look like that. Thompson says he has found that many college students don't know that models' faces are airbrushed in magazines and that photos are computer altered. These changes give models flawless complexions that can predispose viewers to unhappiness with their own flawed appearances. He advises parents to talk with those children and give them ways to deal with their feelings. Whatever the case, parents need to provide support and guidance for their children.