Love Island 2024
As Love Island’s eleventh season premieres, psychologist Dr. Patricia Britto cautions viewers, particularly teenagers, about the show’s impact on body image. With a rise in cosmetic procedures among young people, parents are urged to support their children’s mental well-being and promote body positivity to counteract potential negative influences.
Psychologist Warns Love Island Fans Are At Risk of ‘Depression and Anxiety’
As the ITV dating show Love Island returns for an eleventh season, one psychologist tells watchers, especially youngsters, to be careful about body positivity. Airing Monday, June 3, the show returns with a new batch of singles seeking love and a new host, Maya Jama.
Reality TV & Body Image
Viewers flock to watch the “hot” contestants couple up, but psychologist Dr Patricia Britto has warned of the show’s effect on teenage viewers‘ body image. Pictured: BBL They say that with increasing rates of people wanting cosmetic procedures starting as young as Botox and fillers through to the more drastic procedures such as steroids and Brazilian bum lifts (BBLs).
Parents Are Being Encouraged To Keep An Eye Out For Signs Of Low Self-esteem
Dr. Britto says that parents need to watch out for signs of insecurity or low self-esteem, but wide-eyed children will not only be fooled by “Love Island” stars but also by social media influencers who are all lips, curves, and smiles. Speaking to MirrorOnline, she said: “Whenever the media divides a body shape specifically, this will harm someone in society, particularly teenagers who are yet to grow their prefrontal cortex for rational thinking.
Teenagers and Mental Health — Tips to support their well-being
Dr Britto said that while teenagers are free to watch ‘Love Island’ if they choose to, parents and educators need to support them in relation to their emotional well-being if that viewing experience adversely impacts their self-esteem and confidence. The moment a teenager starts to compare her body to the bodies of the contestants, Stark recommends that their adults stop body shaming and stop using harmful, objectifying language at home, and comfort and nurture the teenager’s emotions.
Supporting Good Mental Health
Dr Britto advises parents to involve their teens in mental health-boosting activities and adds that body dissatisfaction has been associated with dangerous behaviors like unhealthy dieting. A survey from the social media app Be. The result: 36 percent would “do whatever it takes to look good,” 57 percent would diet, and 10 percent would consider cosmetic surgery, Real found.
Mental health support on ITV
In 2022, during filming, ITV offered mental health resources — including education on the negative effects of social media and how the contestants might get hit with backlash — to “Love Island” contestants. As “Love Island” kicks off its eleventh season, it is important for audiences, particularly teenagers, to remember to prioritize their mental health and body confidence while tuning in.
