A Personal Journey
Sunaina Roshan, a writer and cancer survivor known for her association with her brother Hrithik Roshan, recently shared a profound reflection on Instagram
about the pervasive influence of body image and societal judgment. She articulated how people's interactions with her shifted dramatically depending on her physical appearance, stating, 'People treat you very differently based on how we look. And I’ve lived both versions.' She recounted a period of being overweight, during which she felt overlooked and subject to insensitive remarks, with some even comparing her unfavorably to her brother's physique. This experience underscores a stark reality: that external appearances often overshadow a person's true character and essence, leading to unfair treatment and the invalidation of an individual's worth.
The Psychology of Bias
According to psychologist Prerna Pant of ISIC Multispecialty Hospital, the discriminatory behavior observed in society often stems from implicit biases. These are unconscious, automatic judgments formed based on visible characteristics. Pant explains that Western cultures, in particular, have long promoted a narrative linking thinness with success and discipline, while unfairly associating higher body weights with negative attributes. These beliefs are not innate but are acquired through consistent exposure to media portrayals, prevailing cultural stories, and social reinforcement. Consequently, these ingrained biases begin to shape daily interactions, often without conscious awareness. This phenomenon is amplified by the 'halo effect,' where a single positive characteristic, such as conforming to conventional beauty standards, can lead to an overall positive perception of an individual, including attributing qualities like confidence and competence, particularly after weight loss.
Reclaiming Self-Worth
Prerna Pant emphasizes that for individuals who have experienced body shaming, the core issue lies within societal prejudice, not in their personal inadequacy. She stresses the critical importance of developing self-awareness and self-compassion. Instead of internalizing external judgments, individuals are encouraged to anchor their sense of identity in their intrinsic values, capabilities, and life experiences, rather than solely on their physical appearance. From a therapeutic standpoint, Pant suggests several practices to maintain mental equilibrium. These include engaging in expressive writing or art to process emotions, practicing body awareness and mindfulness to foster a connection with one's body that transcends appearance, and employing cognitive reframing techniques to challenge and dismantle internalized negative beliefs about oneself. Furthermore, establishing healthy boundaries is identified as a crucial psychological skill that helps protect one's emotional space and mitigates the damaging effects of repeated invalidation. Pant also highlights that seeking professional support from a psychologist can be instrumental in navigating the stigma, rebuilding self-esteem, and enhancing resilience when these experiences significantly impact mental well-being.
