Abstract
Body image is an integral part of self-perception, behaviors, and attitudes of individuals. Considering that, at present, eating disorders are prevalent among children and often associated with an obsession with body weight, this document, through a literature review, aims to address the issue of body image perception in children and the attitudes and behaviors of individuals in Mexico. According to the evidence provided by the studies discussed herein, such eating problems are related to the context in which children and preadolescents develop. Ideas about ideal silhouettes and the "perfect body" influence both children and their parents, as well as preadolescents, who are exposed to current beauty stereotypes and face social pressure to present an ideal body image. This pressure often leads to conditions of acceptance or rejection based on criteria that are detached from scientific understanding. As a conclusion to this review, it is essential to promote among children, preadolescents, and parents a set of healthy stereotypes that support the healthy development of children and preadolescents.
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© Revista Mexicana de Trastornos Alimentarios/Mexican Journal of Eating Disorders.