Campaign encourages young people to be more confident about their image
Young people should show their real selves and not be influenced by celebrities and their “perfect” images portrayed on social media.
In a survey, the YMCA asked more than 1,000 young people aged 11-to-16 years-old about body image expectations, with 58% of those saying celebrities are responsible for making them want to look different.
The Be Real Campaign, a partnership between YMCA and the Dove Self Esteem Project, has launched #IPledgeToBeReal asking the nation to fight against unrealistic beauty standards by signing-up to its Body Image Pledge.
The pledge aims to reflect reality and diversity, promote health and wellbeing, and champion positive body image. Individuals are making a commitment to limit or stop editing their pictures for social media and celebrate their body’s achievements rather than their looks when they sign up.
Denise Hatton, chief executive at YMCA England and Wales, said: ”Today’s beauty standard is unobtainable, leading us to constantly feel bad about our bodies and our looks this is particularly the case for young people and it can have serious effects on their mental and physical wellbeing.”
She added: “While there is nothing wrong with wanting to show yourself from your best angle, it is important that we still like ourselves when we’re not looking our best.”
