Ageism & Body Shaming: A Millie Bobby Brown Story & Yours Too

Escaping the shackles of body shaming is a redemptive act, as people tend to judge themselves even from their mirrors. Every type of body shaming has a different kind of harm on self-esteem and mental well-being. This article discusses the intricacies of body shaming based on the lives of Hollywood stars and provides tips to overcome its effects. Millie Bobby Brown, who starred in Stranger Things, has recently condemned media outlets for publishing "disturbing" stories that criticise her looks. She discussed the difficulty of growing up in the spotlight and the unrealistic expectations and criticism that many young women in the entertainment industry experience.

In an Instagram video, Millie Bobby Brown addressed the broader issue of public scrutiny faced by young women, emphasising the need to speak out about it. Reflecting on her acting debut at age 10, she noted that people often fail to adapt to her changes, expecting her to remain the same. She complained that adult authors write about her appearance and decisions. She pointed out the adverse influence of societal demand in Hollywood, where people are scrutinised based on their body sizes. Millie has promoted acceptance of oneself and has spoken out about body image concerns. In this article, we talk about the underlying notions of body shaming and gendered experiences of women who are public figures and their ageing under media scrutiny.

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Shunning Body Shaming and Bullying against Young Girls- Through Millie’s Stance

Brown has firmly expressed her determination not to apologise for her natural growth and development, refusing to diminish herself to align with society's unrealistic expectations. Her position is a strong reminder that authenticity and self-acceptance must be prioritised above conforming to superficial and momentary standards. One such dissenting voice is Brown, who has spoken freely about the deeply entrenched double standards in the industry. With her words, she calls attention to the double standard of a society that claims to empower young women while, at the same time, glorifying their demise for sensationalism.

The silver screen's magnetism is truly irresistible, yet it too has a price to pay. The constant expectation of fitting into an exceedingly small paradigm of physical perfection can wreak havoc on the psychological health of a person. It makes a society where impossible standards of beauty are maintained, and one ends up having self-doubt and unhappiness, whether as a star wannabe or as a superstar. The glitzy Hollywood world, with its over-the-top glamour and extravagance, often puts a harsh spotlight on people, exposing them to a poisonous culture of comparison that is steeped in gender expectations. Actresses, in particular, are subjected to inordinate scrutiny of their bodies, being unfairly criticised for any physical changes they experience. In this context, many are bravely standing up against the double standards that women face in the entertainment industry.

As this damaging narrative intensifies under societal scrutiny, it leads to a toxic relationship with one's thoughts. Emotional wounds leave lasting marks, resulting in deep feelings of isolation and diminishing self-worth. Understanding this connection is crucial, as it calls for a shift away from harmful shaming practices and encourages a culture that promotes mental resilience and self-acceptance. In the complex narrative of life, shaming stands out as a significant adversary, affecting not just physical aspects but also mental health. The constant stress and social pressures cause anxiety and depression, an unpleasant emotional state that distorts self-image and erodes self-esteem. The effect on mental resilience is significant, making individuals more vulnerable to psychological problems and creating a negative inner voice.

The ageing gendered experience in the public eye

This raises the important question of whether or not the demand to look young is an ageist one, or if it is simply one perceived as necessary to reach audiences. There is no doubt that women and actresses internalise the values imposed by the traditionally male-dominated media industry, which requires more of women than of their male counterparts. In addition, women tend to be their worst critics, and this is an all-too-well-known habit. Millie's courageous stand in speaking up against those criticising her looks and way of living should be admired and commended.

It is a reminder that women, particularly those who lead their lives under the constant watch of fame, are human beings too and must be given the dignity to age naturally without being judged. In a society where the hegemonic discourse tends to be influenced by the views of white, middle-class, and non-disabled men, individuals feel forced to fit into a uniform standard of acceptability, leading to further exclusion of multiple voices. For journalism to earn the trust of the people, individuals need to feel represented in the stories being told.

Media stories need to be fair and respectful, providing a true representation of people's lived lives. Evidence shows that there is a disturbing link between beauty and ongoing employment, especially for women working in the media, where age can severely threaten careers. Even older women working in ancillary positions, such as journalists who work behind the scenes, face gendered ageism from both colleagues and managers. Given such widespread problems, it is perhaps surprising that more women do not take their employers to court.

The reasons are multifaceted: the process is time-consuming and costly, and even with the support of unions, women tend to struggle with issues of self-survival in deciding whether or not to make discrimination complaints. They can be reluctant to file official complaints, especially if they do not want to lose their existing jobs or get transferred to a different job in the same field.

Conclusion

Brown's remarks highlight the cultural inclination to idolise youth, yet at the same time permit age-based body shaming to creep into the conversation regarding beauty and value. She is a champion of anti-ageism, and it is crucial to celebrate one's age confidently. She encourages others to embrace the ageing process gracefully, rather than succumbing to societal pressures that often dictate otherwise. The outrage also sheds light on how normal it is for our society and media to set a certain perception of beauty and bully any girl who doesn't conform to them, and it is high time we change that.

Views expressed are the author's own.