BodyMatters Individual Therapist Kassie Bottalico responds to shocking footage from Big Brother last week, when female contestants were provided with outfits to wear which did not actually fit the diverse range of sizes within the house. We encourage you to join us in speaking out about this, if you were similarly disturbed.
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Dear Channel 9 & Big Brother,
I am writing in regards to the episode of Big Brother that aired last week.
It is very disappointing to see yet another instance of body shaming on Australian TV. It seems absurd that you would provide a group of individuals with dresses that only fit certain housemates. To only provide a few sizes when there is a range of body shapes and sizes amongst housemates send a clear message.
It was very evident that this message was received and was distressing to housemates, in particular Mikkayla. Furthermore, the fact that you chose to air Mikkayla sitting on the floor in her underwear at a time of such vulnerability for ratings is disheartening.
Here at BodyMatters Australasia we specialise in the treatment of disordered eating and body image issues and we constantly see the effects of this kind of behaviour. Society sets such unrealistic expectations around the way women should look and the size they should be, and behaviour like this just reinforces the idea that girls aren’t ‘normal’ and aren’t good enough if they do not fit these expectations. This messaging leaves females feeling ashamed, inadequate and defective. It can cause self-critical thoughts often resulting in unhealthy eating and exercising behaviour and in many cases eating disorders.
I hope that you consider the contents of this letter in future situations and that in instances such as these, you would ensure that everyone feels comfortable and happy in themselves by providing clothing that fits. I hope that you not only consider the emotional wellbeing of your housemates but also the viewers who may be triggered watching such situations arise.
Signed
Kassie Bottalico
Practice Manager & Individual Therapist
Well said!
In what way is this good television? Since when is humiliating others a good thing? This is yet another example of Channel 9 considering only its ratings, and not the REAL human beings being affected.
Shameful and juvenile behaviour.
Unfortunately those who are in television & other media that set this type of scenario up do not comprehend the values of human dignity & compassion they are just interested in sensationalism as that what sells the show. Public humiliation in front of TV audiences is just the worst of television. Its even worse when channel 9 has seen the serious damage eating disorders can have on a family when the aired the serries of stories about Bronte Cullis. They should know better but unfortunately I don’t think they able to conceive that we should be lifting our fellow humans up & not humiliating them.
Love your comments Donald & love the letter too
Glad to see someone speaking out about this. I was alarmed when i saw it. Thanks Kassandra.
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