Healthism

"A doctrine that links the public objectives for the good health and good order for the social body with the desire of individuals for health & well-being" (Nikolas Rose)

Mintel report surveyed 2000 people aged 16 & over. 

"It's as important to look after your mental wellbeing on your physical/health" 

• Neither agree nor disagree - 20%
• Agree - 77%
• Disagree - 3%

Current problems of generations:

• Need for control, security, resistance
• Striving for perfection
• Anxiety, low self-esteem
• Self-actualisation, Individualism
• Self-presentation of others on social media, impossible high expectations

Uses & Gratification Theory (Social Media)

• Social media is on the rise with 6.62 billion online social media accounts in 2018 (Statista 2018)
• Predicted that over 3 billion social media accounts will be open by the year 2021 (Statista 2018)
• Instagram is known for promotiong a 'healthy' lifestyle by using hashtags such as #cleaneating #healthy #fitness #vegan

• Until the 1900s health was based on looks 

• In the 1970s, the healthy lifestyle trend began

• The link of healthism & Maslow's Hierachy of Needs

• Internal Factors & external factors
• Intrinsic motivations; media, it is getting harder to ignore reality
• Consumers have the power to change conditions! 
• Start by yourself
• Hidden promise: energy boost, glowing skin, purity, better feeling, clear conscience, long and disease free life

Vegans in the UK have risen by 360% over the last 10 years (Mintel, 2016)

• The Impact of Healthism on Society (Carter et al)

Research shows there is a dark side of Healthism - our egos get the better of us and we begin to compete with others. We are no longer practicing Healthism is the right way (diet, exercise, good well being). 

The obsession of Healthism - Orthorexia Nervosa

Even without realising, people are discriminated against due to healthism for example

The Work Place: 

• Overweight discrimination

Smokers:

• Less respected