Fat Shaming and Showing Privates for 03/18/2017

Dear Family Coach: This morning, my 9-year-old came into my room to ask whether she is fat. I was devastated because I'm exceptionally careful to project a positive female body image. I never discuss weight around her. I don't know where this is coming from, and I don't know how to handle it without creating a bigger issue. For the record, she isn't even remotely overweight. Help! — Disappointed Mom

Dear Disappointed: It seems no matter how conscientious parents are it's impossible to keep the word "fat" out of the vocabulary of young girls. What a shame. Unfortunately, women and their bodies are discussed ad nauseam in the media. While men are often judged by what they say and do, women are critiqued on how they look. Fat shaming is quite prevalent on social media as well. All of this adds up to an impossible position for parents.

Updated: Sat Mar 18, 2017