ONE of the most challenging teenage issues to confront parents is body image.

A person’s body image is how they think and feel about their body, and what they imagine it looks like.

This may have nothing to do with their actual appearance.

Poor body image can have a range of negative effects, including disordered eating, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

Mansfield Secondary College nurse, Sue Lovick, said body image is an issue with most young people, it is a part of adolescence and adults are much more comfortable with their bodies.

A lot of parents do not realise they are as big a role model in their children’s lives as their peers.

"Parents need to be a good role model - they are the most influential role model in their child’s life," Ms Lovick said.

Children learn eating behaviors from their parents, so include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low fat dairy products and cereals in the family’s diet - go easy on takeaway, fried foods and sugary snacks.

"Parents need to also accept their own and other people’s body size and shape," Ms Lovick said.

"Instead, they should talk about all the different aspects that make up a person, such as personality, skills and outlook on life."

Studies show that a person who appreciates what their body can do, rather than what it looks like, feels good about their body and tends to have higher self-esteem.

For more information go to www.betterhealthchannel.com.au.

Some other tips include:

l exercise regularly;

l be critical of media messages and images that promote thinness;

l try to find a team sport to enjoy - team sports encourage camaraderie, teamwork, competition and mastery of physical skills;

l help them feel confident about themselves - a strong sense of identity and self-worth are crucial to your child’s self-esteem;

l don’t tease them about their weight, body shape or looks - even seemingly friendly nicknames can be hurtful if they focus on some aspect of the child’s appearance; and

l place value on their achievements, such as talents, skills and school grades.