Any boy who has played with a Batman or Spiderman action figure has been exposed to a toy of a male hero who possesses a hyper-muscular physique. In fact, if these toy’s dimensions were to scale, Batman’s biceps would be the same size as his waist. It is this type of unrealistic notion of the male body that garners admiration and respect from others, argues Dr. Roberto Olivardia, and has led many boys to develop an unhealthy obsession with the muscularity of their body and, ultimately, a harmful body image.

I recently attended an informative lecture by Dr. Roberto Olivardia that delved into the topic of body image in boys. With over 30 years of experience treating boys with various body image needs, Dr. Olivardia brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation. The lecture shed light on an often overlooked and misunderstood issue: 1 in 4 boys beginning as early as age 8 struggle with body image concerns.