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Thin-Shaming Exists Too, and It’s Not a Compliment
Last week, I picked up my daughter, Chloe, from basketball practice. As she climbed into the car, she sighed dramatically and said, “I need to start lifting weights. My arms are just too skinny.” I glanced at her in the rear-view mirror, watching her scrutinize herself. “Your arms are just fine. Did someone say something, or is this your own opinion?”
“No one said anything, but they’re so small! I can’t stand them.” I could see the tears welling up in her eyes as she tugged at her shirt sleeves.
It’s possible someone had commented, or maybe she was measuring herself against her teammates—a habit that, sadly, many girls fall into. The idea that “I’m different, so I’m less than” starts at a young age and can stick with them for life.
I’ve overheard remarks about Chloe’s body, like “Does she even eat?” or “You need to feed her!” or “She’s too skinny.” While intended as jokes, these comments are anything but funny. The hypocrisy around critiquing someone for being thin needs to end. Why is it acceptable to say, “You should eat something”? It should be as unacceptable as suggesting someone who is curvy should cut back on their meals. I would never dream of telling a fuller-figured person to eat less, so why is it okay for others to comment on my daughter’s appearance?
Society often views remarks about thinness as compliments. Making jokes about women needing to “go eat a pizza” isn’t just harmless banter; it’s damaging. The snickers that follow those comments are equally harmful.
Can we all agree that commenting on anyone’s body is a no-go? It’s particularly detrimental for young girls who are still figuring out how to accept themselves. We’ve all been there—ask any woman or man.
Some might argue that my perspective is too strong, but it’s not. The principle that no one should be teased for their size applies universally. Unfortunately, there’s a double standard regarding teasing thin individuals. It’s often seen as acceptable to poke fun at them, leaving them to bear the brunt of passive-aggressive remarks that are somehow viewed as compliments. I call nonsense on that.
When someone makes a remark about my daughter being thin, it’s akin to insulting someone for being overweight. The notion that being thin equates to starvation is a twisted and harmful mindset that should have been abandoned long ago. Many women are naturally slender regardless of their diet. Some work out purely for the joy it brings, while others may wish for more curves. Many lead healthy lifestyles for their mental well-being, and their body shape is merely a reflection of their choices, genetics, or both.
Let’s also toss out ridiculous phrases like, “Real women have curves” or “She should eat a cheeseburger.” The definition of a “real woman” has nothing to do with size or looks.
Real women recognize their worth, no matter their size. They enjoy cheeseburgers, hit the gym, are naturally slim, are curvy, or are plus-sized—and they love themselves for who they are. They possess integrity, strength, and kindness, and above all, they never make snarky comments about another woman’s body.
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Summary
Thin-shaming is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed, with society frequently viewing comments about thinness as compliments. It’s vital to recognize that body shaming—regardless of size—is harmful, especially for young girls. Everyone deserves respect for their body, and we must move away from making jokes about anyone’s appearance.