Only Skinny Girls Get the Roles: Body Image in the Dance World

Abstract

“Well, if your teacher is reinforcing these unrealistic norms of the media by nit-picking your bodies, it seems like there is a bigger problem here,” prodded Jenna. “Other girls who we aren’t roomies with are probably acting just like Jill. I think you should talk to your dance teacher, Kara . . . for the health of you, Jill, and who knows how many other dancers.” Kara sat in silence. She agreed with her friends, and she knew that until the midterm Jill had not been quite so obsessive about her weight. “But couldn’t I just get Jill the help she needs and not deal with Professor Chasse? That might impact my future here in more ways than one if I am seen as a whistleblower or rebel in the dance department. Yet, she really is abusing students, even though she says it’s for ‘our own good,’” she thought. “Girls, I see your point. But for tonight, let’s think about how to approach Jill and let me sleep on what to do about our teacher.”