Vol. 3, Issue 6, Part I (2017)

Abstract
This article discusses about different aspects and issues of body image among adolescents. Body image is a dynamic concept which is defined as subjective feeling about one’s own appearance. It has two facets: positive and negative body image, which plays important role in identity formation of an individual. Positive body image facilitates psychosocial functioning whereas negative body image leads to dissatisfaction and lowered self-worth in individuals. Adolescence is a stage of life where body image is very crucial which is formed and influenced by different psycho-social factors. Body image can be understood through the lens of gender, with boys desiring to be muscular and girls desiring to be thinner. Body image is largely influenced by family, peers, media and culture. These factors play an important role in developing ideals of appearance as an important aspect of body image among individuals. Body image has wider psycho-social implications in the functioning of an individual’s life, especially during adolescence.