In America, people base many factors on body image. People will judge one's lifestyle, make guesses on your self esteem, and even assume one's personality just looking at a person's image. With that being said, the biggest problem that America faces when referring to body-image is obesity. It's a problem that affects as much as two-thirds of all Americans. With the high levels of obesity that occur in America, it is no shock to find out that about five years from today's generation's life expectancy can be cut by up to five years. This can be attributed to the fact that diabetes will become an issue, and that heart related diseases are striking at earlier ages. However, cultures base their opinions on perfect body image, and America is no different.

Many people frown upon the amount of obese people in the nation. Businesses would rather not hire obese people because it is more likely that the individual will be struck with diseases earlier. Also, obese kids and teenagers are more prone to being teased and picked on because those are the ages where people are most shallow, and will base everything more on looks. Today, America bases everything on male and female model looks. It is easier for more attractive men and women to find a relationship, and based on my experience, people of average looks or higher are more welcomed with open arms. However, this is just modern America's stand on body image.

Body image fluctuates throughout many different cultures. In the earlier times, people actually loved obese people. It displayed wealth and dominance, which attracted others significantly. In countries like India and people who practice other religions and participate in certain tribes, people have erratic body piercings and tattoos which the normal American would find weird. However, in the places where these tribes gather, it is a normal for that to occur. Body image is something that varies culturally. It changes everywhere you go, depending on religion, other lifestyles, etc.