'Bigorexia' Is On The Rise In Kids And Teens. Here's What Parents Should Know.

Key Points:

• Muscle dysmorphia, or "bigorexia," is a growing psychological disorder, especially among boys, characterized by an obsession with muscle size and a distorted self-image despite having a muscular physique.
• The disorder often leads to unhealthy behaviors such as obsessive exercise, extreme dieting, and steroid use, and is under-recognized due to societal normalization of muscularity-focused behaviors.
• Social media significantly contributes to the rise of bigorexia by promoting unrealistic body ideals and constant comparisons, which can fuel body dissatisfaction and harmful behaviors among impressionable youth.
• Experts recommend that parents limit social media exposure, foster open conversations about body image, emphasize inner qualities over appearance, and provide context about the unrealistic nature of celebrity and influencer physiques.
• Early intervention is crucial; parents should watch for signs like obsessive exercise and rigid eating habits and seek professional interdisciplinary help if muscle dysmorphia is suspected.