"Some things are more precious because they don't last long (Oscar Wilde). People in the United States are faced with self image conflicts everyday that can essentially destroy them. It is vital that these issues of lack of self esteem and self image are obliterated. It doesn't matter whether it effects one person, thousands, billions, it should not even be an issue.
In The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde explores the functions of vanity and image of oneself and image in society. Dorian Gray is the prime example of vanity and image. He attempts to maintain a perfect image in the eyes of society in the beginning of the novel, but his self image is far more important to him than that of societies image on himself. His ambition for eternal youth drives him to his destruction and his inner turmoil is eventually shown externally.
All over the world, thousands and billions of individuals are confronted with the dilemma of self image. It is demonstrated in hundreds of ways as well; through illnesses such as eating disorders and depression or even bullying. "Nearly a quarter of girls age 15-17 would consider undergoing plastic surgery and 7 in 10 girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way including their looks, performance in school and relationship." These are serious situations that should be taken as such. People fall victim to self image, their self esteem diminishes and can lead to suicide. "In 2013 (the most recent year for which full data are available), 41,149 suicides were reported, making suicide the 10th leading cause of death for Americans."
These health issues can affect anyone around us, your friends, your family, and even yourself. We should know how to detect these negative connotations on self image in order to protect those we care for. Perfection is a facade, that cannot be reached, or implemented because it is not real, and there is no ideal for anything, especially when it can effect your health and mental stability.
