Teen Mom' Farrah Abraham keeps making the news with each new plastic surgery procedure intended to mold her to look like another celebrity. Many teens truly believe looking like their favorite celebrity is the only way to form an identity. Reports indicate that the widespread availability of plastic surgery, plus the pervasive influence of reality shows promoting physicality are having a profound effect on the self-worth of young people, especially girls.
In a December, 2012 press release, a Seattle plastic surgeon stated that younger patients are turning to BOTOX®. Davidson said, “Unlike adults who choose plastic surgery and use BOTOX® to turn back the clock, many teens desire it in order to fit in. They believe it will make them popular and/or they will no longer be bullied about a defect. What they do not realize is that despite cutting-edge cosmetic procedures, there is no guarantee of a perfect result or happiness. Unrealistic expectations about plastic surgery can set a teen up for major disappointment.” Davidson knows this all too well. In her book ‘Torn Between Two Masters’ she candidly speaks about her blotched rhinoplasty.
When asked, “How do you respond when a healthy child insists she needs plastic surgery because she's too fat or is being teased?” Davidson replied, “I tell parents four things:
1. Accept the adolescent's reality. Acknowledge that you understand the pressure teens are under and you would like to hear their thoughts on the issue.
2. When expressing your concern try to remain non-confrontational.
3. Ask them to express what they truly desire to attain from the procedure. Be empathetic.
4. Help them to think through reality and gain a more objective perspective.
Ms. Davidson added, “The bottom line is, most girls want to feel attractive and captivating. Tell your daughter often that she’s pretty. And it is as or more important to emphasize character over appearance.” It is critical to help teens build a sense of significance and purpose, thereby minimizing celebrity obsession. Davidson’s book addresses the ways parents and mentors can do that.
Other subjects covered in ‘Torn Between Two Masters: Encouraging Teens to Live Authentically in a Celebrity-Obsessed World’ include but are not limited to:
• Why the lure of celebrity is so powerful
• How to minimize celebrity obsession by increasing a teen's self-worth
• The best ways to help teens navigate and be critical of the media
• How to identify and discourage negative and normalized behaviors such as eating disorders and 'hooking up’
• How Jesus Christ can transform a teen's life into one of purpose
“From a pastoral counselor's perspective” continued Ms. Davidson, “I believe readers will find ‘Torn Between Two Masters’ especially interesting, as the book explores the captivating, and serious, implications of this culture's obsession with celebrities and the effect it has on adolescents. It provides timely insights for parents, youth leaders, and anyone else who loves and mentors teenagers.”
Kimberly Davidson is available for media interviews and speaking engagements and can be reached using the information below or by email at kim@kim-davidson.com. More information is available at her website. ‘Torn Between Two Masters: Encouraging Teens to Live Authentically in a Celebrity-Obsessed World’ is available at Amazon and other online book retailers.
About Kimberly Davidson:
Kimberly Davidson received a MA from Western Seminary, a BS from the University of Iowa, and is a board certified biblical counselor. She has ministered to women for over ten years, from the walls of prison to youth centers, inspiring them to empower God to meet their emotional and spiritual needs. Kimberly is also a Her Journey leader with ARMS (Abuse Recovery Ministry Services) and a Guest Instructor at Western Seminary on the subject of Eating Disorders and Body Image.
Contact:
Kimberly Davidson
http://www.olivebranchoutreach.com
kim@kim-davidson.com
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