The Body Positivity Movement: Is it Really All that Positive?

The addition of the term “body positivity” to the Oxford English dictionary reflects the growing popularity of a movement that recognizes “the dangers that exclusionary body ideals pose to our mental health” (Ali). In recent years, influencers have propelled body image conversations to social media, where they attempt to destigmatize derogatory terms related to weight while countering fatphobic ideas. These mobilizing groups, generally comprised of youthful, white, able-bodied, and conventionally attractive women, seek to inspire their followers to embrace their imperfections, preach…