Weekly Check-Up: Eating Disorders On the Rise In Young Kids

re: Weekly Check-Up: Eating Disorders On the Rise In Young Kids

LMN — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 19:55:45 GMT

I agree that the media can't be blamed for everything - but when heavy children are being taken from their homes by child protective services - in some cases, permanently - because a dad who tells you you're fat and makes you weigh in daily is OBVIOUSLY a better parent than a mom who feeds you and doesn't make you diet at 10, when most women talk about dieting and how they hate their bodies, when fat is the focus instead of exercise and nutrition, no matter what your size - well, I'm not surprised.

re: Weekly Check-Up: Eating Disorders On the Rise In Young Kids

Treespeed — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 16:56:28 GMT

So eating disorders are all driven by the media and toy marketing? I guess I missed the study that showed a direct link between the owning of Bratz dolls and eating disorders. I know that growing up there certainly weren't any fat girls who played with Barbie dolls.

re: Weekly Check-Up: Eating Disorders On the Rise In Young Kids

Maeby — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:55:20 GMT

I honestly dont know how those damn bratz dolls and shows are still available! They all look like little hood rats! Tramps! Was there not enough hate mail from mothers or something?? I cannot believe its acceptible to have them on tv, or anywhere around children. Bratz are banned in this house. I dont give a flying crap if Susys mom lets her wear tall skinny boots with mini skirts and halter tops. terrible..

re: Weekly Check-Up: Eating Disorders On the Rise In Young Kids

allyson — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 13:53:01 GMT

As the mother of two little girls, ages 5 and 10, this is a subject that has been discussed in our home. My girls are aware of what fat is, but luckily aren't obsessed about their getting fat. They know about a healthy diet and healthy choices, but they look at it as keeping their bodies healthy, not because they don't want to get fat. I hope it will always stay that way. My 5 yr old is more concerned with physical appearance than my 10 year old and I've had a few talks with her about the person inside being important, not what's on the outside. Unfortunately, the marketing that's directed at these kids, even at age 5 is all about appearance. Bratz dolls, don't get me started. The clothing that shows bare bellies, hip hugger jeans, platform sandals..for 4 and 5 year olds? Come on. My kids will be in Winnie the Pooh until they're 20.