Based on the Wood-Barcalow, Tylka, & Augustus-Horvath (2010) article, respond to the following:

Consider your own internal holistic body image. Give at least one example for each aspect of each of the four structures and be sure to describe the three processes that influence dynamics between these structures.

In your initial post, be sure to do the following:

Define and describe your own sources. Include each of the following: society/media, developmental, biological/heredity, spirituality/religion, community, interpersonal relations, and cultural values. Define each separately. Describe your own current filter and how it might be influenced by particular settings or sources. Remember, at a given time, the filter is made up of your current affect, beliefs (rational or irrational), and perceptions (accurate or inaccurate). Describe your current body image investment. Describe your body evaluation. (All this can be done with bullet points.)

Considering reciprocity, fluidity, and filtering. Describe how these structures interact with and impact one another. Be detailed and specific.

Self-Reflect: Read back over your responses to parts i. and ii. and reflect upon how you feel about your own current internal body image.

Wood-Barcalow, Tylka, & Augustus-Horvath’s (2010) holistic body image model shows different sources that affect one’s view of their body. Consider the role of spirituality/religion as a source within your personal body image. Define and describe the influence; describe the role of this source through the lens of reciprocity, fluidity, and filtering and consider the role of this source upon other structures within the model (four to five sentences).

ANSWER

Exploring Holistic Body Image: The Role of Spirituality/Religion

Introduction

Holistic body image encompasses multiple structures that influence an individual’s perception of their body. These structures, including society/media, developmental, biological/heredity, spirituality/religion, community, interpersonal relations, and cultural values, interact with one another through reciprocity, fluidity, and filtering. This essay delves into my personal sources of body image, particularly focusing on the influence of spirituality/religion and how it impacts other structures within the holistic body image model.

Personal Sources of Body Image

Society/Media: The portrayal of “ideal” body images in media, magazines, and advertisements.
Developmental: Early childhood experiences and messages about body image from family and caregivers.
Biological/Hereditary: Genetic predispositions that influence body shape and weight.
Spirituality/Religion: Personal beliefs and values related to the body as a sacred vessel or a temple of the soul.
Community: Social norms and expectations within my immediate environment.
Interpersonal Relations: Influence of close friends, partners, and social support networks.
Cultural Values: Cultural norms and standards of beauty prevalent in my cultural background.

Filtering: My current body image is influenced by my affect, beliefs, and perceptions at a given time. It is shaped by my emotional state, rational and irrational beliefs about body image, and how I perceive my body in relation to societal and cultural standards.

Reciprocity, Fluidity, and Filtering

Reciprocity: The influence of spirituality/religion on other structures.

Through my spiritual beliefs, I view my body as a vessel created by a higher power, emphasizing its sacred nature. This belief reciprocates with my cultural values, which also emphasize the sanctity of the body as influenced by my religious upbringing.

Fluidity: How structures interact and impact one another.

My spiritual beliefs promote body acceptance and self-compassion, leading to positive effects on my emotional state and interpersonal relationships. This fluidity allows for a more compassionate and understanding outlook on myself and others.

Filtering: How my current affect, beliefs, and perceptions shape my body image investment and evaluation.

My spiritual beliefs and practices have led to a more positive body image investment, wherein I value my body as a means of connecting with the divine. Consequently, I evaluate my body with greater acceptance and appreciation for its inherent worth beyond its physical appearance.

Reflection on Personal Body Image

Considering my current internal body image, I feel a sense of peace and contentment with my body. My spiritual beliefs have allowed me to shift my focus from external standards to appreciating my body as a gift from a higher power. While societal and cultural influences continue to exist, my spiritual foundation serves as a powerful filter, guiding me towards self-love and acceptance.

Conclusion

The holistic body image model by Wood-Barcalow, Tylka, & Augustus-Horvath (2010) emphasizes the complex interplay of various structures in shaping an individual’s body image. In my personal experience, spirituality/religion has emerged as a crucial source, influencing other structures and leading to a more positive and accepting body image. Understanding these interactions allows for a comprehensive approach to body image development and fosters a healthier and more holistic perception of the self.