Body-shaming (critiquing yourself or others because of a particular aspect of your appearance) is a vicious circle of judgement and criticism. When one mocks or criticizes someone’s physical appearance they are body shamed.  There are many ways in which body shaming manifests itself, including making a passing comment about your appearance or criticizing someone else’s appearance in front of them.

It is so common for sitcoms to make fun of overweight characters’ bodies. People have become accustomed to criticizing their bodies as a way to bond with their friends – if everyone hates their bodies, this creates a sense of unity and belonging. 

When we are upset, annoyed, or intimidated by someone, do we automatically criticize their appearance? When these situations arise, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood, the default defense we often use is “They’re ugly, whatever.” Some people find it more convenient to aim for something that will hurt, like a physical appearance, than to express their emotional state. It is easier to bury underneath the body-shaming comments that rush to our mind when we say, “I am really hurt by how my friend treated me,” or “I am terrified of losing this friendship” when we open up and make ourselves vulnerable. 

Body-shaming hurts a person physically or mentally. As a result, people may feel insecure, depressed, and more. Body-shaming is a vicious tool that can be used to hurt individuals. Engaging in such heinous acts is therefore morally wrong. 

So, the next time you’d wanna shoot down comments on someone else’s appearance, pause and think about the consequences. Spread love, not hate.