Parents today are generally aware of mental health conditions that relate to body image, including common disorders like anorexia. But experts warn a lesser-known issue is on the rise, particularly among boys: muscle dysmorphia, aka “bigorexia.”
With bigorexia, the afflicted person is obsessed with becoming more muscular and preoccupied with the idea that their body isn’t brawny enough ― even if they actually have the physique of a bodybuilder.“Individuals may have an inaccurate view of their bodies, often believing they are smaller or less muscular,” said Amy Gooding, a clinical psychologist at Eating Recovery Center, Baltimore.
What’s fueling the rise of bigorexia in kids and young adults?
“There are many potential causes and influences, including biological, psychological and sociocultural factors that can contribute to the development of this disorder,” Kara Becker, a certified eating disorder therapist and national director of eating disorder programs at Newport Healthcare, said. “A family history of mental health conditions, especially disorders related to body image or anxiety, may increase the chance of developing bigorexia. Likewise, people with low self-esteem, perfectionism or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable to developing this disorder.”
“Bodybuilders and other people who lift weights are at a higher risk than the general population,” Jason Nagata, a pediatrician specializing in eating disorders in boys and men, said. “Competitive athletes are more at risk than noncompetitive athletes. Athletes who lift weights to change the appearance of their bodies are at higher risk than those who focused on improving performance.”
Experts who spoke to HuffPost agreed that one of the biggest factors contributing to the rise of bigorexia is the proliferation of social media.
A family history of mental health conditions, especially disorders related to body image or anxiety, may increase the chance of developing bigorexia. Likewise, people with low self-esteem, perfectionism or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable to developing this disorder.
“Not only are young people consuming body ideals from the media, but they feel pressure to produce content and display their own bodies on social media,” Nagata said.
The overemphasis on an idealized physical appearance in media and advertising is particularly harmful for younger boys, who might not fully appreciate that influencers and celebrities actually make their livelihood off images of their bodies. It’s a different reality that is unattainable (not to mention undesirable) for most people.
Comment sections also expose posters and viewers to harsh critiques about people’s bodies, which can fuel more insecurity and low self-esteem.
“For those struggling with muscle dysmorphia, seeing pictures and messaging on social media may cause a person to have harmful thoughts about the need to change their body,” Gooding said.
What can parents do?
There are many ways parents can help counteract the forces that fuel body image issues and psychological disorders like bigorexia.
“Limit social media consumption as much as possible, but recognize that you cannot eliminate it altogether,” Trunzo advised.
“Parents should challenge unhealthy and unhelpful messaging about ‘perfect bodies’ and social acceptance,” Gooding advised.
If parents believe their child is being bullied or teased about their appearance, they should take action.
Interested in learning more about how to foster a healthy body image in your child or teen? Check out our curated list of books about disordered eating.
Nagata shared some typical warning signs for muscle dysmorphia, urging parents to take note if their child develops a preoccupation or obsession with weight, food, exercise or appearance in a manner that “worsens their quality of life and impairs their social, school or daily functioning.”
If you suspect your child is starting to struggle with bigorexia, know that they are not alone and there are resources that can help.
“Boys with muscle dysmorphia or eating disorders should seek professional help,” Nagata said. “They can discuss these issues with a primary care pediatrician. Eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia are best supported by an interdisciplinary team including a mental health, medical and nutrition provider.”
Many professionals specialize in the treatment of body dysmorphia and even specifically muscle dysmorphia. Your child can learn to identify triggers, understand their thought process and learn ways to cope.
Excerpted from “‘Bigorexia’ Is On The Rise. Here’s What Parents Should Know” in the Huffington Post. Read the full article online.
Source: The Huffington Post | ‘Bigorexia’ Is On The Rise. Here’s What Parents Should Know, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bigorexia-parents-boys_l_6786dc1ee4b0a673540f92d2 | Part of HuffPost Parenting. ©2025 BuzzFeed, Inc.
