TRANSFORMING TRADITIONS

The standard's of society constantly change because of new, technological developments, pressures presented through the media, and demands on improving athletic and academic achievement. A major transformation in societal standards is in the changing perceptions of self esteem and body image. According to Ideal Fitness, an health and exercise company, the average American model is 5'11" tall and 117 pounds, compared to the average, size 14 woman in the 1920's. The "Flapper"--the adventurous, daring, and sexy woman who challenged the rules of modesty in the 1920's--and the Barbie doll play two significant roles in transforming body image ideals.