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05 August 2012| last updated at 11:01PM

IS THIN IN?: An obsession which can get out of hand

By Samuel Yesuiah, Seremban, Negri Sembilan

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THE trend of young girls embracing the thin fad is worrying and dangerous. Girls as young as 10 are obsessed with being slim and svelte. The girls believe that being thin is attractive and healthy.

The media, movies and billboards glorify glamorous and beautiful slim women. The perception of physical beauty has been ingrained in the minds of young girls and it is difficult to change their mindset.

Slim and svelte models and actresses are the benchmark of beauty and grace for many young girls, and it explains the prevalence of eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia among the young. The obsession to be beautiful cuts across women from every age, culture and academic background. Girls as young as 10 want to look like teenage superstars.

And the craze to be thin has made some young girls go on crash diets and fad diets, which have adverse effects on their cognitive abilities and bone health. Women who are working and who have the resources take their obsession to another level by going under the knife. Some of these surgeries have resulted in the women being physically and emotionally scarred.

Many young girls and teenagers are ignorant of the dangers of dieting and eating disorders and it is the duty of parents and teachers to inform them of the dangers. Parents should teach them healthy living habits, healthy eating, exercising, celebrating life and feeling good about themselves.

Young girls have to be advised that the outward appearance of a person is not as important as what's inside. Help the young celebrate their unique talents and traits.

And most importantly, parents should never compare their children with one another. Everyone is unique and special. Never undermine or ridicule them because of how they look. Encourage them to do their best.

A fashion show in Colombia. Slim and svelte models and actresses are the benchmark of beauty and grace for many young girls. AFP pic

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