FSU facilitates discussion regarding body image issues
Feminist Student Union discussed positive body image Monday at 5 p.m. in the Center for Social Justice.
Topics included stereotypes, the media’s portrayal of those who are overweight, personal stories and ways to obtain a positive body image.
Leading the discussion were Women’s Center staff members Lauren Olson and Rachel Post. Post and Olsen loosened up the fellow FSU members and encouraged them to talk about themselves.
The atmosphere was honest, with members sharing stories and experiences fluctuating between their highs and lows.
The discussion centered around the members wanting to be strong by loving their bodies but still battling psychological factors one member described as “terrifying”.
A subtopic of the discussion was how people’s body image affects life choices, such as job interviews and where to shop. Members talked about stores such as Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch where sizes ran smaller than other stores. The consensus was the sales tactic potentially feeds negative body image.
The opposite side of the spectrum was touched on momentarily as attendees spoke of exercising and dieting excessively.
FSU meets again Nov. 16. Members hope to continue exploring body image, focusing more on veganism and stereotypes.