So much of young women's self-esteem is tied to a number on a scale, a dress size or an image in a mirror. We're not supposed to hate models because they are beautiful. Modeling agencies, fashion designers and women's magazines all work to create these messages, but Ford Modeling Agency and Calvin Klein declined to comment on the effects their models and messages have on women's self-esteem.
Some women internalize that image.
This internalization is what is dangerous, Hesse-Biber says. We are taught that we are responsible for our own bodies and if our bodies don't look right, then it is our fault. So women try to change their bodies and sometimes resort to methods that are not beneficial to their health. Everyone wants to be in good health, but good health for every woman is not 110 pounds. But these unrealistic images are often the standard of beauty that is depicted in the 3,000 advertisements people see each day.