We've all been told that those damn diets don't work, yet millions of Americans still look skinny with any alternative other than exercise. The power of television plays an important role in determining the success of the diet industries. Everyone is aware of the advertising methods of the diet industries, apparently comparing two photos of a poor overweight guy with an incredibly fit one wearing the same outfit can persuade thousands of citizens hoping that the same effect will happen to them. The commitment to being thin is higher than ever with cases of anorexia growing like weeds in a field, being thin has shaped our perspectives into thinking that looking like a stick is much better than having body curves. We don't know much, the images we see on billboards, magazines and other places in society are all Photoshopped to look almost too good to be true (Romo). By putting photos of tall, thin, good-looking people in front of our faces, the media has influenced us to think that the thinner you are, the better. I also had some difficulties related to my weight. Growing up, my mom always looked in the mirror and told me she needed to lose weight. To me, my mother was the most beautiful woman in the world and I couldn't pinpoint why she was so dissatisfied with her body. Growing up I had a lot of insecurities too, besides being short, I thought I needed to lose weight too. My brother and I also always argued and he always ended up calling me fat. As much as I wanted to believe he was joking; part of me started to believe it. As I walked down the street, I saw billboards of flawless looking models wearing dresses and told myself that I… middle of paper… remember no one is perfect, we are unique in our own way. This is what makes us human. Works Cited “Eating Disorders: Why Do They Happen?” November 19, 2013. Chemeketa Community College Library. . Web.Hiskey, David. “Marilyn Monroe never came close to a size 12-16.” April 17, 2012. Chemeketa Community College Library. November 18, 2013. . Web.Relant, Julie. “Eating Disorders Are on the Rise: What You Need to Know.” Fox News. October 13, 2013. Chemeketa Community College Library. November 19, 2013. . Web.Romo, Samantha. “As body image issues grow in society, be aware of the influence of the media.” The crimson white. March 7, 2012. November 20, 2013. . Web.Uzoma, Kay. “Percentage of Americans Who Diet Each Year.” Live strong. November 16, 2010. November 18. 2013. . Net.