The Impact of Body Shaming on Infants: A Silent yet Harmful Trend

Nithin A. F, Consultant Psychologist, SUT Hospital, Pattom.

Body shaming is a form of criticism or mockery directed toward someone’s physical appearance. While infants cannot understand or internalize such behavior, the effects of body shaming directed at them can still ripple through through the attitudes and behaviors of caregivers and the environment in which they are raised.

Effects on Caregivers

Parents or caregivers subjected to comments about an infant’s weight, size, or physical attributes may feel guilt, shame, or self-doubt about their parenting. This can lead to:

• Overfeeding or underfeeding
• Affecting their mental health and potentially influencing how they interact with their child.
• Strained relationships with family or friends who perpetuate the body shaming.

Impact on Infants

Although infants are not directly aware of body shaming, the following long-term effects can arise indirectly:

• Overcorrection of feeding practices could lead to obesity or malnutrition later in life.
• Negative attitudes or comments overheard by the child can shape their self confidence as they grow.

Addressing the Issue

• Encourage parents or caregivers to focus on bonding and creating a loving atmosphere instead of worrying about societal standards.
• Educate caregivers and family members that children grow at their own pace and that difference in size or weight are often normal variations.
• Avoid comparing an infant’s growth, appearance, or milestones to those of other children, as this fosters unnecessary pressure.
• Redirect discussions to topics like the infant’s developmental progress, energy levels, and general health instead of their physical appearance.
• Address and counter insensitive remarks by educating others about the negative impact of body shaming on families and children.
• Parents / Caregivers should exhibit positive attitudes, as children mimic their surroundings and internalize behaviors.
• Foster open, respectful communication within the family to address and prevent judgmental attitudes.
• Regularly consult pediatricians to track the infant’s growth and receive reassurance about their development, reducing caregiver anxiety.

Apart from this, if the baby is not gaining weight properly, has trouble with food intake, is not achieving developmental milestones, or is not active, it should be a cause for concern, and should consult a Paediatrician without delay.

Fostering a nurturing environment free of judgment ensures healthy emotional and physical development for infants. By promoting positive attitudes and seeking professional guidance, families can shield infants from the indirect impact of negativity.