Society’s Influence on Young Girls: The Rise of Negative Body Image
Harshitha Chaganti
August 2024
Body image issues among teens have become increasingly common in modern society, largely due to media influence and societal expectations regarding physical appearance. Peer pressure, family dynamics, and cultural norms also play a significant role in shaping teens’ perceptions of their bodies. Society often places value on physical appearance, leading teens to feel that their worth is tied to how they look rather than who they are as individuals.
In the UK, the prevalence of appearance-based bullying among 11 to 16-year-olds is alarmingly high, with over half of young people reporting having experienced it. Of these, 40% endure such bullying at least once a week. A significant 54% of young people state that the bullying began by the age of ten. Additionally, those who are overweight or obese are disproportionately targeted, making them more likely to suffer from appearance-based bullying.[3] This highlights the urgent need for interventions to address this issue and create inclusive environments.
One contributing factor to this rise in appearance-based bullying is the pervasive influence of social media. With the increasing use of social platforms among young people, the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards has intensified, leading to a negative impact on body image and self-esteem.
Dr. Gary Goldfield’s study on social media’s effects on body image shows that participants who limited their social media use had better perception of their overall appearance compared to those who had unrestricted access. However, there was no significant difference in how they perceived their weight after three weeks.[2] Dr. Goldfield’s study adds insight into how excessive screen time, especially on social media platforms, can overwhelm users with images that promote unattainable beauty ideals. As a consequence, this can lead to dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Thus, limiting social media use potentially stops some of these negative effects.
The impact of social media is not just theoretical; it’s reflected in the lived experiences of young people. Many teens, like Laura, find themselves caught in a cycle of comparison and self-criticism as they navigate the world online.“I would follow all the celebrities my friends did and it started to make me look at them differently. I would look at where they were and what they were wearing and compare it to my life. I started to feel inadequate about the way I dressed and looked.”[4] Laura’s statement highlights how social media shapes teenagers’ self-perception. By comparing themselves to celebrities, teens often feel inadequate about their appearance. This shows the pressure they face to meet unrealistic standards and emphasizes the need to promote self-acceptance.
In addition to the influence of social media, the impact of peer groups on body image and eating behaviors cannot be overlooked. The pressure to conform to the expectations and norms within a peer group can be just as powerful, if not more, in shaping a young person’s self-esteem and behaviors.
Doctor Harris, a medical professional who touched on the topic of peer pressure which is also a form of environmental influence states in a review of the development literature, “Peer groups are one of the main factors that influence the development of disordered eating patterns. Pressure to fit in and meet the group norms is one of the most potent ways that peers can modify personality characteristics.”[1]Dr. Harris’ expertise shows how peer groups strongly influence the development of disordered eating patterns. Pressure to conform to the group norms regarding appearance can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors as individuals strive to fit in. This emphasizes the need to address peer influence in preventing and treating disordered eating.
To foster healthy self-perception, society must value individuals for their inner qualities rather than superficial attributes, promoting inclusivity and diversity. By celebrating diverse body types, cultures, and identities, we can create an environment where people feel accepted for who they are. Educating young people about unrealistic media portrayals and encouraging critical thinking can further support a positive self-image.
References
[1] Alsayed, J. A. (2023, December 15). The Effect of Sociocultural Attitudes on Developing Eating Disorders Among Young Females in Almadinah Almunawarah, Saudi Arabia. NCBI. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10789473/#REF4
[2] Body image in childhood. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/articles/body-image-report-executive-summary/body-image-childhood
[3] Reducing social media use significantly improves body image in teens, young adults. (2023, February 23). American Psychological Association. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/02/social-media-body-image
[4] Suryajaya, L. (2022, March 31). What Students Are Saying About How Social Media Affects Their Body Image (Published 2022). The New York Times. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/31/learning/what-students-are-saying-about-how-social-media-affects-their-body-image.html
Green drink ‘superfood’ powders have taken the US by storm with the supposed ability to act as a multivitamin, a multimineral, a prebiotic, an adaptogen (i.e. foods that help people respond to stress, anxiety, etc.), and the list goes on. AG1 is one of the most well-known of these ‘superfood’ powders, but it’s extremely costly with a monthly subscription costing 79 dollars.[1][2] Are these ‘superfood’ powders truly beneficial or another fad?
AG1 is a 3rd Party Tested Drug, meaning that the product is certified via an independent organization. AG1 is said to be tested by NSF International, an organization that does annual checks of sanitation and safety of food, water, and consumer products.[6] Therefore, AG1’s product is not tested for effectiveness, only that it meets the company’s safety standards. Still, the fact that AG1 is certified by NSF makes it safer than non-tested options such as Bloom Greens.
Despite being only 3rd Party tested, AG1 still is transparent with its ingredients if one is willing to research what is listed. The ingredients are publicly listed on their site. AG1 additionally posted some of its own peer-reviewed studies about newer ingredients. There is proof that AG1 has shown to change a human’s digestive and intestinal genome through probiotics in the product. The phytochemicals provided by AG1 have been proven to change the microbiome from studies done on mice as well as in vitro studies, in some cases decreasing the biodiversity of certain groups of the microbiome but increasing in others.[5]To be sure of AG1’s effectiveness and safety, more research must be done preferably from multiple unbiased sources.
The probiotics for AG1 primarily come from apple fibers, inulin and probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum along with other probiotics used and studied, (e.g. faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Waltera intestinalis and Arthrospira), have been shown to aid in anti-inflammation, and digestion in model studies but should be taken with a grain of salt.[1][4][10][11][12]This shift in biodiversity through these probiotics has yet to show any favorability in humans, as the only studies available to the public, seem to only to be an in vitro study based on colonic activity in a human[5].
Nutrition is a fairly new concept, which is why any vitamin, health food or health fad should be taken with a grain of salt. Still, it is undeniable that micronutrients are required for a healthy, functioning body. This is why milk is fortified with vitamin D and salt with iodine.[7] AG1 has been shown to be more effective for certain minerals such as Magnesium, Calcium and Zinc than a supplement tablet, but when it comes to the bioavailability and bioaccessibility, certain micro vitamins such as Magnesium, Calcium and Zinc would increase anyways due to the increased surface area a powder brings compared to a tablet.[8] Other nutrients incorporated such as folate, vitamin B12, vitamin E, etc are essential for a person to stay healthy but, most people don’t actually need them form a supplement as their diet is more than adequate.[3]
Taking too much of certain micronutrients could be dangerous. For example, high doses of calcium can lead to body aches, digestive issues and kidney problems. The vitamins and minerals in AG1 are over 100% of the recommended daily value for a 2000 calorie diet.[3] A micronutrient is called a micronutrient for a reason. Rather than supplements or vitamins, it would be more optimal and healthier to try and get these micronutrients from one’s daily diet.
So is AG1 a scam? Yes and no. There is proof that the drink can act as a multivitamin and possibly remedy nutritional deficiencies. Unfortunately, AG1 is too expensive for most people who would need the drink.[8][9] Rather than a superdrink, it may be cheaper and safer to go with a multivitamin approved by USP, to get the boost of the certain nutrient you need without messing with your body’s delicate biogenome.
[2]Cleveland Clinic. (2022, February 10). What are adaptogens & types. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22361-adaptogens.
[3]Columbia University. (2024, July 25). What supplements do you need? Probably none. Columbia University Irving Medical Center. https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/what-supplements-do-you-need-probably-non e.
[4]Ferreira-Halder, C. V., Faria, A. V., & Andrade, S. S. (2017). Action and function of faecalibacterium prausnitzii in health and disease. Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology, 31(6), 643–648. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpg.2017.09.011.
[5]Kirby, T. O., Sapp, P. A., Townsend, J. R., Govaert, M., Duysburgh, C., Marzorati, M., Marshall, T. M., & Esposito, R. (2024). AG1® induces a favorable impact on gut microbial structure and functionality in the simulator of human intestinal microbial ecosystem® model. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 46(1), 557–569. https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46010036.
[6]NSF. (2017, December 19). What is NSF certification?. NSF. https://nsf.org/knowledge-library/what-is-nsf-certification.
[7]The President and Fellows of Harvard College. (2024, May 9). Vitamins and Minerals. The Nutrition Source. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/vitamins/.
[8]Sapp, P. A., Townsend, J. R., Kirby, T. O., Govaert, M., Duysburgh, C., Marzorati, M., Marshall, T. M., & Esposito, R. (2023). AG1®, a novel synbiotic, demonstrates superior mineral bioaccessibility and bioavailability compared to a tablet multivitamin and mineral supplement using an in vitro model of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Applied Biosciences, 2(4), 656–667. https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci2040041.
[9] Shifler Bowers, K., Francis, E., & Kraschnewski, J. L. (2018). The dual burden of malnutrition in the United States and the role of non-profit organizations. Preventive medicine reports, 12, 294–297. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.10.002.
[10]WebMD LLC. (2023a). Bifidobacterium bifidum: Overview, uses, side effects, precautions, interactions, dosing and reviews. WebMD.
[11]WebMD LLC. (2023b). Lactobacillus acidophilus: Overview, uses, side effects, precautions, interactions, dosing and reviews. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-790/lactobacillus-acidophilus.
[12]Wylensek, D., Hitch, T. C. A., Riedel, T., Afrizal, A., Kumar, N., Wortmann, E., Liu, T., Devendran, S., Lesker, T. R., Hernández, S. B., Heine, V., Buhl, E. M., M D’Agostino, P., Cumbo, F., Fischöder, T., Wyschkon, M., Looft, T., Parreira, V. R., Abt, B., Doden, H. L., … Clavel, T. (2020). A collection of bacterial isolates from the pig intestine reveals functional and taxonomic diversity. Nature communications, 11(1), 6389. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-19929-w.
Making Survivors Feel Comfortable with Natural Processes
Isha Gupta
August 2024
A traumatic experience such as sexual violence can drastically affect people’s lives. Even if a traumatic experience occurred during childhood, it can still significantly affect people when they become adults and throughout their lifetime.[1] According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four women has experienced completed or attempted rape, and one in three women faced sexual harassment in a public place.[2] Sexual violence is not just an issue that affects women, given that men and LGBTQIA+ individuals also face the threat of sexual violence.[2] Nevertheless, natural biological processes of the female body, namely, menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding could bring unique challenges and opportunities for female survivors of sexual violence.
Sexual violence can affect the menstrual cycle. Survivors’ menstrual cycles can become irregular and they may miss their periods.[3] Also, there can be increased premenstrual symptoms, along with more pain and heavier bleeding during menstruation.[3, 4] Periods can be a difficult time, especially for survivors who may find the bleeding and cramps trigger thoughts of the sexual violence they faced.[5] More specifically, some survivors who once used internal menstrual products, like tampons to manage monthly bleeding, find it challenging to continue using internal menstrual products since they can trigger flashbacks of the tremendously traumatic experience.[5] Periods can be a more sensitive time for survivors, especially if they have low self-esteem, negative body image, and guilty feelings following the traumatic experience.[5] There are a variety of strategies to make this monthly occurrence more comfortable and support survivors’ health and wellness during menstruation. For instance, survivors could consider using less invasive menstrual products like pads and period pants, while they are still healing from trauma.[5] Survivors are recommended to be aware of, accept, and acknowledge their emotions honestly during monthly periods.[5] Survivors are encouraged to practice more self-care and relaxation activities during menstruation, such as wearing comfortable clothes, watching a movie, listening to music, drinking a favorite tea, and eating chocolate if desired.[5, 6] Moreover, survivors should try to track their menstrual cycle so they feel more prepared.[6] Loved ones of survivors could try to support them during menstruation by bringing pads and comfort food, and just being there to talk.[6] Similar care, relaxation, and support strategies could be considered for survivors experiencing postpartum bleeding.
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Sexual violence is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy-related concerns such as pelvic pain, pre-term birth, and low birth weight.[7] Nonetheless, pregnancy and childbirth can promote resilience, empowerment, and healing among survivors if they have a positive and supportive birthing experience.[7] One of the first and most important steps to fostering positive birthing experiences for survivors is to effectively educate healthcare workers on sexual trauma and how it affects patient health and well-being, especially during a vulnerable and critical period like childbirth.[7] Pregnancy and childbirth can be stressful for survivors of sexual violence especially due to the association of certain feelings with traumatic memories.[7] For example, among some survivors, pelvic pain and fetal movement could trigger stressful memories of their traumatic experiences.[7] Also, some survivors share how they felt that their healthcare provider dismissed and invalidated their concerns about discomfort and trauma during childbirth, especially during vaginal examinations and procedures, where survivors felt ignored and like they had no control over their bodies.[8, 9]It is essential for survivors and their medical providers to establish and maintain trust. Based on research conducted, many survivors feel it is important for their healthcare team to be aware that they have sexual trauma, however, oftentimes they are not asked about it.[9]Interestingly, there is no one standard birthing method that all survivors prefer; some survivors feel more comfortable with Cesarean sections (C-sections) and some with vaginal deliveries. For instance, some survivors prefer C-sections to prevent possible vaginal tearing and avoid vaginal examinations.[9] On the other hand, some survivors prefer vaginal deliveries since they feel more in control of their bodies, are uncomfortable with the idea of surgery, and avoid taking numerous medications.[9] Trauma-informed medical care practices can help survivors feel more comfortable during pregnancy and childbirth, which can safeguard both their health and their baby’s health. Diverse trauma-informed care practices can be utilized, including allowing the survivor to have a support person if possible, allowing the survivor to uncover her body on her own, starting with the least invasive medical procedure if possible, and ensuring the survivor properly understands the process and importance of medical procedures in advance.[7]
Breastfeeding
Some survivors of sexual violence have low self-esteem and negative body image, which can cause hesitancy about breastfeeding, especially in public settings.[10] This, in turn, further contributes to lower levels of self-esteem as they often feel bad and ashamed about not being able to effectively breastfeed their babies.[10] Moreover, in medical settings, survivors can feel retraumatized particularly if healthcare workers touch them without warning or invitation to help initiate the breastfeeding process after childbirth.[10] Furthermore, the over-sexualization of women’s breasts and undermining of their function to nurture new life significantly contribute to survivors’ discomfort and difficulty breastfeeding. For example, some survivors resent and feel ashamed of their breasts as a result of over-sexualization, ridicule, and hurtful comments about their breasts, and may perceive their breasts to be the cause of the traumatic experience.[10] Simultaneously, the ability to breastfeed can be a transformative experience for survivors and empower them on their healing journey. For instance, some survivors find the changes pregnancy and childbirth bring to their breasts wondrous.[10] Their body image can shift from negative to positive, as they become more aware of the power they hold to breastfeed and nurture new life. This, in turn, encourages them to embrace their breasts, and the process of breastfeeding, as healthy, impactful, essential, and auspicious rather than something to be ashamed of.[10] Additionally, access to social support, such as breastfeeding support groups and initiatives to promote breastfeeding, helps facilitate positive and encouraging experiences for survivors.[10] Making survivors feel more comfortable and confident with breastfeeding simultaneously ensures the new generation of infants are able to get the benefits breastfeeding offers.
Interventions to help survivors who have experienced very traumatic experiences of sexual violence and have difficulty coping include antidepressant medications and psychotherapy.[11, 12] Sexual violence is a critical and prevalent societal concern. Managing normal biological processes occurring in the female body could be difficult for survivors recovering from a traumatic experience like sexual violence. Being aware of the unique challenges survivors face, and how to mitigate them, can help create safe, supportive, positive, and healthy environments for survivors, and simultaneously empower them on their healing journeys.
References
[1] Brunton, R., & Dryer, R. (2021, January). Child Sexual Abuse and Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Literature. ScienceDirect.
[4] Romito, P., Cedolin, C., Bastiani, F., Beltramini, L., & Saurel-Cubizolles, M. J. (2017, May 31). Sexual harassment and menstrual disorders among Italian university women: A cross-sectional observational study. Sage Journals.
[7] Ward L. G. (2020). Trauma-Informed Perinatal Healthcare for Survivors of Sexual Violence. The Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing, 34(3), 199–202.
[8] Montgomery, E., Pope, C., & Rogers, J. (2015, August 26). The re-enactment of childhood sexual abuse in maternity care: a qualitative study. BioMed Central.
[9] Lissmann, R., Lokot, M., & Marston, C. (2023, November 16). Understanding the lived experience of pregnancy and birth for survivors of rape and sexual assault. BioMed Central. https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-023-06085-4
[10] Wood, K., & Esterik, P. V. (2010, April). Infant feeding experiences of women who were sexually abused in childhood. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2860840/
[11] Rothbaum, B. O., Ninan, P. T., & Thomas, L. (1996). Sertraline in the treatment of rape victims with posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of traumatic stress, 9(4), 865–871. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02104108
[12] Tull, M. (2023, December 6). Understanding PTSD After Sexual Assault. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/symptoms-of-ptsd-after-a-rape-2797203#toc-treatments-for-ptsd -after-sexual-assault
Balancing Minds and Hormones: Unraveling the Impact of Contraceptives on Young Girls’ Mental Health
Janani Devkumar
August 2024
The growing association between mental health and hormonal contraceptive use is becoming an issue of rising concern for young girls. Due to the wide scope of benefits provided from hormonal birth control, ranging from acne management to pregnancy prevention, the utilization of this medicine has become more prevalent among adolescents. As a consequence, the mental health implications of these medications have come under growing inspection. This article focuses on the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and mental health disorders in young adolescents, further highlighting the significance of well-informed decisions for the betterment of young girl’s healthcare.
The Impact of Hormonal Contraceptives on Mental Health
Hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, injections, and implants, are put into effect by changing the body’s natural hormone levels in attempts to avoid accidental pregnancies. These methods, despite having a high efficiency rate, have the potential to affect the brain’s chemistry. This could cause alterations in the adolescents mood as well and negatively impact their mental health. The two main hormones that are influenced by contraceptives are estrogen and progesterone, which are responsible for inflicting changes to the mental health of the individual.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry led to the conclusion that young girls that utilize hormonal contraceptives were 80% more likely and in greater risk of being diagnosed with depression in comparison to those who did not use these methods. [1] In addition, a separate study brought awareness to the unfavorable consequences that resulted from the usage of these medications by highlighting that young adolescents who used combined oral contraceptives had a 70% increased risk of developing symptoms of anxiety compared to those who did not. [2]
Risk Factors Involved
Various factors can increase the risk of experiencing mental health issues from hormonal contraceptives. This includes pre-existing mental health conditions, such as a previous experience or history with depression or anxiety. In addition, genetic proneness, such as a family history of mental health disorders, can also influence the extent to which a girl’s body reacts in a negative manner to these hormones.
Research that was conducted by the University of Copenhagen found that teenage girls who possessed a history of mental health issues had almost double the risk of experiencing worsening symptoms after starting hormonal contraceptives. [3] To expand, a longitudinal study expressed that those with a family history of depression had a higher likelihood of developing symptoms related to depression following the introduction of hormonal birth control into their system. [4]
Conclusion
The correlation between mental health disorders and hormonal contraceptives for adolescent girls is a complex and highly prevalent issue in today’s society. Despite the benefits that result from taking these medications, the potential negative consequences on mental health for those who take them cannot be overlooked. It is important to understand that great consideration must go into deciding whether or not hormonal contraceptives are the best route for young girls.
References
[1] Skovlund, C. W., Morch, L. S., Kessing, L. V., & Lidegaard, Ø. (2016). Association of hormonal contraception with depression. JAMA Psychiatry, 73(11), 1154-1162.
[2] Zettermark, S., Perez Vicente, R., & Merlo, J. (2018). Hormonal contraceptive use among adolescent girls and subsequent depression: A nationwide population-based cohort study. BMJ Open, 8(11), e024813.
[3] University of Copenhagen. (2017). Impact of hormonal contraception on mental health in young women. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, 45(5), 483-491.
[4] Bratke, S., & Sundström, A. (2020). Hormonal contraception and the risk of mental health disorders: A systematic review. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 126, 75-85.
The Silent Toll: How Workplace Stress Disrupts Women’s Menstrual Health in High-Pressure Careers
Janani Devkumar
August 2024
The workplaces in today’s modern society stand responsible for stimulating high stresses and intense pressures in their employees. Despite the shared experiences of tension among both men and women, demanding professions inflict unique challenges particularly for females in regard to their menstrual health. Research depicts a strong correlation between workplace stress and menstrual irregularities that are highly prevalent in female employees who are placed in demanding positions in their field of labor. This article delves into the specifics of these consequences while simultaneously highlighting the need for better support systems for women placed in these high-pressure environments.
Stress can be responsible for a variety of hormonal changes that occur within the body. This can be initially stimulated by the release of cortisol, which can be otherwise referred to as the “stress hormone”. As the levels of cortisol rises, it impedes a region of the brain primarily known for its regulation of the menstrual cycle: the hypothalamus. Disruptions to this section can stimulate imbalances in hormones including estrogen and progesterone. This further links to menstrual inconsistencies, such as missed periods, unpredictable cycles, and intensified symptoms.[1]
A study conducted by the American Psychological Association illustrated that women who are involved in work atmospheres with intense pressure are more likely to experience menstrual irregularities. The research further reported an approximation of 40% claiming to have pissed periods and 25% possessing an experience with significantly heavier menstrual bleeding during periods of high stress. [2] In addition, another study put forth the notion that women participating in high-pressure areas of work, such as medicine and law, had a 33% higher chance of experiencing extreme menstrual cramps in comparison to women who were involved in fields that were less demanding. [3]
Nurturing a Healthier Work Environment
In order to alleviate the stress that the workplace imposes on menstruation for women in high stress jobs, employers must take measures to create a healthy atmosphere. This may include promoting flexible work policies, such as remote work positions, which can assist women in managing their stress with greater care. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology further explored how flexible work patterns diminished menstrual interferences in 60% of women participants. [4]
Conclusion
Workplace stress is difficult to avoid in modern life and fields of work, however its impact on women’s menstrual health should not be left unnoticed. Through efforts to understand the association between stress and menstruation as well as fostering supportive work environments, employers can help reduce some of the burdens placed on women active in high-stress jobs.
References
[1] Chandraratna, S., & Harlow, S. D. (2022). Stress and menstrual cycle irregularity: A prospective study of the effect of workplace stress. Journal of Women’s Health, 31(3), 300-306.
[2] American Psychological Association. (2023). Stress and menstrual health: How workplace pressure affects women’s cycles. APA Research, 45(2), 112-119.
[3] Cousins, S., & Maguire, K. (2021). The impact of occupational stress on menstrual health among women in high-stress professions: A review. Women’s Health Issues, 31(6), 452-460.
[4] Allen, R., & Parker, J. (2022). The effect of flexible work policies on women’s health outcomes in high-stress jobs. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 27(3), 205-213.
Shattered Illusions: The Exploitation of Young Women in K-pop
Tanvir Bhamra
August 2024
The global rise of K-pop has captivated millions, turning the genre into a multi-billion dollar industry fueled by the allure of glittering performances, catchy tunes, and meticulously crafted idols. Behind the carefully curated images of perfection, the young women who fuel this global phenomenon frequently endure relentless and unforgiving standards. Young women in K-Pop are often subjected to grueling schedules, strict control over their personal lives, and immense pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
As these women are molded into idols, their lives become a constant performance, both on and off stage. The relentless pursuit of perfection means that every aspect of their existence is scrutinized, from their weight and appearance to their behavior and personal relationships, with idols having strict diets and routines. These diets are crafted with the sole purpose of ensuring that idols maintain a particular body type, typically very slim, with little regard for the individual’s nutritional needs or overall health. Such diets can come as one fruit per meal, or even surviving on one ice cube a day.[3] The aftereffects of such lead to these idols facing mental health issues like depression and anxiety, while continuing the façade of happiness and perfection for their fans.
The level of control companies have over idols frequently strips them of their autonomy, leaving them no room to express their true selves. In addition, the harsh competition promotes a society where even a minor mishap can lead to extreme yet contrasting consequences; throughout the many companies of K-pop, members have left their groups for multiple reasons, recently Taeil from NCT left due to sexual crime allegations, with some of his fans still providing their support.[1] While it was appropriate to have him kicked out, Soojin, on the other hand, left the group (G)I-DLE due to alleged bullying accusations that were later proven false due to lack of evidence.[4] Of course, there are many more examples where idols have to undergo these instances, such as having to apologize for smaller things like dating someone, all the meanwhile male idols are given a bit more leeway.
With the boom of K-pop came young teens with dreams of joining the stage, eventually leading companies to debut girls as young as 13. These young hopefuls, eager to achieve stardom, often find themselves thrust into an industry that demands perfection and sacrifice at any cost. These teens experience the same intense aftereffects of stardom as their older counterparts all while navigating the ways of life. The rigorous training process puts tremendous pressure to succeed, often at the expense of their physical and mental well-being.
As more young teens entered the K-pop scene, the pressure to succeed intensified. These aspiring idols faced not only the challenges of fame but also the heavy cost of their training and debut. Despite massive revenue generated by K-pop groups, many idols, both men and women, only see a fraction of the profits or none at all. Due to the concept of “Idol debt”, trainees are seen as an investment to companies, so after one debuts they are responsible for paying the company back with the money they make from performances. This debt includes the cost of their training, housing, food, and even the production of music and music videos, which can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Unless the group is from a “big 4” company (Jyp, YG, Hybe, SM), this often means years of performing without seeing any real financial reward. Many ex-idols have come out to address this issue, one being former “Momoland” member, Daisy, who revealed that she had been in debt of 150k USD (KRW) and was only paid once during her two years as an idol, with her part-time job paying 1.3 times more in comparison.[2]
While providing entertainment and joy to millions, the K-pop industry is built on the exploitation of trainees and idols. Despite their global fame and success, many endure a harsh reality based on intense pressure and lack of autonomy.
References
[1] Clarke-Billings, L. (2024, August 28). K-pop singer leaves boy band over sexual crime accusation. BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crlree49382o
[2] Daisy [@daisiesforyu]. (2024, April 4). Unpopular opinion: 17 year olds should not be worrying about debt everyday 😭😭😭😭😭😭[Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@daisiesforyu/video/7354223325779987728?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7258774295826990638
[3] De La Cruz, B. (2023, December 6). Toxic Beauty Standards of Korean Idols | by Baleria De La Cruz | Past/Present/Pop. Medium. Retrieved August 13, 2024, from https://medium.com/past-present-pop/toxic-beauty-standards-of-korean-idols-5bdcf5e4ab83 [4] Sai, A. (2023, October 17). Explained: Former (G)I-DLE member Soojin’s bullying allegations and controversy. sportskeeda. https://www.sportskeeda.com/pop-culture/explained-former-g-i-dle-member-soojin-s-bullying-allegations-controversy
Miscarriage is often described as the unexpected end of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks of the gestation period. Though it can be difficult to understand the feeling in depth, it is essential to acknowledge the several negativities that come with a miscarriage. Every woman’s experience with it is different; however, several clinical specialists regard it as a traumatic experience that can evoke dreadful feelings of guilt, shame, and even symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).[1]
There are several reasons surrounding the cause of a miscarriage. Due to this, the phenomenon of miscarriage is quite common. In fact, around 10-20% of all pregnancies unfortunately result in a miscarriage.[2] Contrary to most beliefs, mental health problems, exercise, and minor injuries are not what causes miscarriages. If the miscarriage occurs during the first trimester, which about 50% of miscarriages do, it is due to the fertilized egg containing an unusual amount of chromosomes. Another factor could be if the mother has a severe and abnormal disease or infection, such as unmanaged diabetes, immune system disorders like lupus, kidney disease, heart disease, and thyroid disease.[3] Another very possible component of miscarriage is old age.
These causes can lead to a few different types of miscarriage. Inevitable miscarriage is when the cervix opens up early, leaking amniotic fluid. Complete miscarriage is when the fetal tissue passes, leaving the pregnancy sac empty. Missed miscarriage occurs when there are no shown symptoms of a miscarriage, but the fetus has no heartbeat. Lastly, an incomplete miscarriage occurs when some pregnancy tissue has passed, but some tissue still remains in the uterus.[4]
Emotional Responses to a Miscarriage
The time it takes to recover from a miscarriage is largely dependent on the person. Some couples come and accept the terms just within a few weeks, whereas others could take longer. Everyone endures grief differently; some find it better to talk about it, whereas others find it too miserable. Feelings of anxiety, depression, shock, guilt, anger, and resentment are common among individuals who recently miscarried. About 20% of women who miscarried became diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety, with impactful symptoms that lasted 1 to 3 years.[5] After pregnancy loss, a large hormonal shift comes straight afterward. The sudden change in hormones contributes to an impactful amount of emotions. On average, it takes about 2 to 8 weeks for hormone levels to recuperate.
Physical Responses to a Miscarriage
Emotional tolls are not the only thing that comes with the cost of miscarriage. Several symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping are extremely common the weeks after a miscarriage. Like the emotional toll that comes with miscarriage, the physical process that comes afterward is experienced differently depending on the individual and the type of miscarriage they had. Painful period-like cramps are expectant; this usually occurs because the uterus is still squeezing out the leftover content that remained in the pregnancy sac.[6] Some women even experience labor contractions. It is also likely for women to bleed heavily and even pass out. Treatment and symptoms for a woman who miscarried in her second trimester are a bit different. Since the fetus is more developed in the second trimester, hospitalization is a hundred percent necessary. Miscarrying in the second trimester also puts you through a more notable and real experience of labor. Miscarriage may also put you through certain discomfort like breast soreness and headaches.
How to Heal
Learning to heal is a different process for everyone. It is a distinctive and personal process that takes time and strength. It is crucial to consider reaching out to a mental health professional after a miscarriage, especially with a notable history of depression. A miscarriage therapist can help sort through dreadful and complicated emotions an individual might be going through. Getting in contact with someone who could help emotionally could be extremely beneficial to the woman suffering. After a miscarriage, it is especially key to make sure you are thoroughly practicing self-care. This is essential to make a good and healthy recovery. Physical activity is a great way to bring yourself joy and even let go of any emotional stress.
References
[1] Roxby, B. P. (2020, January 15). Miscarriage can lead to “long-term post-traumatic stress.” https://www.bbc.com/news/health-51093999
[2] What is a Miscarriage? | Causes of Miscarriage. (n.d.). Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/miscarriage
[4] Healthdirect Australia. (2024, May 8). Miscarriage. Types, Symptoms and When to See a Doctor | Pregnancy Birth and Baby. https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/miscarriage
[5] Nynas, J., Narang, P., Kolikonda, M. K., & Lippmann, S. (2015). Depression and anxiety following early pregnancy loss. The Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders. https://doi.org/10.4088/pcc.14r01721
[6] The Miscarriage Association. (2024, January 25). The physical process – The Miscarriage Association.https://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/information/miscarriage/the-physical-pro cess/
A Natural Process and A Leading Cause of Maternal Mortality Worldwide
Isha Gupta
July 2024
The birth of a baby is often a tremendously joyous occasion as parents welcome a new member to their family. Pregnancy and childbirth are accompanied by drastic changes to physical and mental health. Even after their baby is born, women can experience health effects as their bodies adjust to the postpartum period. A common experience is postpartum bleeding, also referred to as lochia.[1] New mothers experience bleeding from the vagina after childbirth due to shedding and restoration of the womb lining.[2] Experiencing some bleeding is a normal part of the postpartum period. However, excessive blood loss, also referred to as postpartum hemorrhage, is a critical maternal health concern to be aware of, given that it is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide.[3]
Women may experience postpartum bleeding regardless of if they had a vaginal delivery or Cesarean section.[2] Postpartum bleeding can last a few weeks.[1] The bleeding could temporarily get heavier and be accompanied by cramps, particularly during breastfeeding, due to the related uterine contractions.[1, 2]
Hospital and postpartum pads help effectively manage heavier bleeding, and women can use menstrual pads as their bleeding subsides.[2] Also, women who gave birth vaginally could potentially consider creating and using padsicles, an innovative term for chilled or frozen sanitary pads. Padsicles could help them reduce pain, swelling, and bruising, while simultaneously, managing bleeding and promoting healing.[4] New mothers are advised to refrain from using tampons and menstrual cups, until they have their postnatal checkup and their healthcare provider approves, in case there are wounds, tears, or cuts around the vagina, and to prevent infection while the body is healing.[1, 2]
Women should promptly seek a medical professional if they lose so much blood that they have to change their pad in less than an hour, and if the bleeding does not subside over time.[2] Also, profuse large blood clots could be a sign of the uterus having difficulty shrinking back to its original size.[2] Additionally, women experiencing postpartum bleeding should seek medical attention if they experience dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or signs of infection such as fever and chills.[2]
Postpartum hemorrhage is characterized by blood loss of 500 mL or more.[3] Postpartum hemorrhage usually occurs within 24 hours after childbirth.[5] However, it can also occur up to 12 weeks after birth.[5] Therefore, it is very important for new mothers to be aware of the signs and monitor their blood loss, in order to prevent adverse outcomes including death. Along with persistent and excessive bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage can be accompanied by symptoms of decreased blood pressure such as blurred vision, dizziness, or feeling faint.[5] Other signs of postpartum hemorrhage include pale skin, nausea, vomiting, and worsening abdominal or pelvic pain.[5] A common method that medical professionals determine the amount of blood loss among new mothers is by weighing their blood-soaked pads.[5] Additional diagnostic tests for postpartum hemorrhage include blood tests to measure red blood cells and clotting factors as well as ultrasounds of the uterus and related organs.[5]
One of the most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage is a soft and weak uterus, referred to as uterine atony.[5] Another common cause is uterine trauma, which can occur due to damage caused to the uterus, cervix, vagina, or perineum during childbirth.[5] The use of medical tools such as forceps and vacuum extraction during childbirth can increase women’s risk of uterine trauma.[5] Postpartum hemorrhage can also occur when the entire placenta does not separate from the wall of the uterus, referred to as retained placental tissue.[5]In addition, postpartum hemorrhage can occur in women who have coagulation disorders or conditions like eclampsia, because they can interfere with their body’s clotting ability.[5] Diverse factors can influence the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, including having more than one baby simultaneously, giving birth to a large baby, prolonged labor, and older maternal age.[5]
There are diverse ways postpartum hemorrhage could be treated. Each woman should be given a personalized treatment plan based on her personal root cause and the particular amount of blood she has lost. For instance, if postpartum hemorrhage is caused by uterine atony, then specific medications such as oxytocin or prostaglandins like misoprostol could help induce contractions.[5] Other ways postpartum hemorrhage is treated include uterine massages to help uterine muscles contract, removing retained placental tissue, and repairing tears or lacerations on the vagina, cervix, or uterus.[5] Additionally, the uterus could be packed with sterile gauze.[5] Moreover, a balloon could be utilized to put pressure on uterine walls.[5]In rare cases, a surgeon might need to make an incision in a woman’s abdomen to effectively determine the source of her postpartum hemorrhage, known as laparotomy, or surgically remove her womb, known as hysterectomy.[5] Furthermore, women suffering from postpartum hemorrhage may need blood transfusions to replenish the blood lost.[5]
Postpartum hemorrhage could be a painful and even traumatic experience for new mothers and it could be a stressful experience for their loved ones.[3] Furthermore, in many communities around the world, bleeding during and after childbirth is considered impure and to be caused by evil spirits, similar to stigmas surrounding menstrual bleeding.[3] Negative socio-cultural perceptions and taboos could influence delays in seeking medical attention, especially since women and their community members may end up ignoring excessive blood loss until new mothers become unconscious.[3] Combating misinformation and raising awareness of both natural postpartum bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage is crucial for improving new mothers’ health and well-being. Early detection and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage helps lead to healthier outcomes and save women’s lives.[5]
Postpartum bleeding is a common experience among new mothers. Nevertheless, it is essential to effectively understand and distinguish normal postpartum blood loss and postpartum hemorrhage.[6]It is important for women to feel safe and comfortable sharing concerns about their health after childbirth so that serious maternal health concerns like postpartum hemorrhage can be addressed efficiently.
References
[1] National Health Service. (2024, April 25). Your body after the birth. National Health Service. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/after-the-birth/your-body/
[2] Watson, S. (2018, July 23). Is Postpartum Bleeding Normal?. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/is-postpartum-bleeding-normal
[3] Akter, S., Forbes, G., Vazquez Corona, M., Miller, S., Althabe, F., Coomarasamy, A., Gallos, I. D., Oladapo, O. T., Vogel, J. P., Lorencatto, F., & Bohren, M. A. (2023). Perceptions and experiences of the prevention, detection, and management of postpartum haemorrhage: a qualitative evidence synthesis. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 11(11), CD013795. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD013795.pub2
[4] Higuera, V. (2019, December 18). Padsicles: How to Make Them, How To Use Them, Why We Love Them. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/padsicles
[6] Fletcher, S., Grotegut, C. A., & James, A. H. (2012). Lochia patterns among normal women: a systematic review. Journal of women’s health (2002), 21(12), 1290–1294. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2012.3668
How Federal Pell Grants for Incarcerated Women Could Improve Quality of Life and Change the Fabric of Education in the U.S.
Gabriela Castro April 2024
There is no question that going to college affects life outcomes. The most apparent effect is that higher education is strongly correlated with higher income.[31] The benefits aren’t limited to finances. According to one study, college completion is associated with less health issues and greater longevity across all racial and ethnic identities.[42] Furthermore, public resources like Federal Pell Grants help reduce the cost of going to college for those who qualify based on financial need. More specifically, it helps students who are from lower income brackets receive more robust financial aid for college through the program.
Prior to 2020, Federal Pell Grants were not available to people in incarceration.[26] This was due to the 1994 Crime Bill which prohibited people serving prison sentences from accessing federal aid.[23] The sole exception for this law was made in 2015 by the Department of Education, which implemented the Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Initiative (SCP), which essentially tested using federal financial aid at state and federal prisons and invited specific colleges to participate in 2016.[36]
That is until a December 2020 Supreme Court decision in which it was decided that incarcerated individuals were eligible for the Pell Grant, which went into effect in July 2021.[13] The law was further amended in 2022 when legislators expanded Pell Grant eligibility to include prison education programs (PEP), effective July 2023.[4] With the option to fund college education through federal resources now available to them, Pell Grants can change the lives of incarcerated women across the U.S. through educational attainment, higher income potential, better physical and mental health, reduce unemployment rates, lower recidivism rates, and better generational outcomes.
In the U.S., college average annual tuition costs $10,662 for public in-state institutions, $23,630 for public out-of-state colleges, and $42,162 for private colleges.[21] These costs grow and will continue to grow every year and its impact shows. By the end of 2023, the average college loan debt was $37,090 in total per borrower.[18] The rising cost can discourage people from finishing their degrees. It is estimated that 32.9% of students dropped out of college in 2023.[19] When a 2022 survey studied why, 59% of students who dropped out before COVID and 52% of students who dropped out during COVID cited the cost of attending college as a critical reason for dropping out.[37] This is where the Pell Grant makes a difference. For the 2023-2024 award year, eligible Pell Grant recipients can receive as much as $7,395 from the program each year,[17] and it can be renewed for up to 6 years.[3] Not only does the Pell Grant make a direct financial impact, but students who receive it can be considered for other forms of financial aid from their college or universities such as scholarships simply because eligibility for Pell Grants can be used as an indicator of financial need.
Current Educational Attainment Trends Among Incarcerated Women
Incarcerated people, and more specifically, incarcerated women, are a unique demographic when we consider college attendance and graduation. In 2021, the US Census Bureau found that 37.9% of U.S. adults over 25 years old held a degree.[34] By comparison, a 2016 study found that 5.1% of incarcerated women held a bachelor’s degree while 11% had completed some college.[27]
While the proportion of incarcerated women who have any college experience or completed a degree is higher than the proportion of incarcerated men who have at least some college experience or earned a degree, incarcerated men are twice as likely to have entered prison with a GED than women.[27] Furthermore, a 2019 study found that while about 1 in 4 people who are incarcerated pursue education while in prison, only 7% complete a certificate and 2% complete an associate’s degree during their sentence.[28]
When we consider that the average prison inmate with a job working a for state-owned businesses earn between 33 cents and $1.41 per hour[33] and people with criminal records are ineligible for many scholarships, it is no wonder many incarcerated people can not afford a college education and are therefore dependent on publicly subsidized education in order to further their education.
The data shows that when academic and vocational classes are available in prisons, incarcerated women use education to their advantage. After the implementation of the Second Chance Pell Program (SCP), it was found that 15% of incarcerated women were enrolled in a college program while 7% earned a credential in 2021.[6] Researchers presume that the reason women appear to earn credentials at half of their enrollment rates has to do with disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic and that women are completing their credentials after being released, which research is not keen to keep track of once they have served their sentences.[6]
A follow-up report to these findings found that between 2021 and 2022, incarcerated women made up 13% of incarcerated individuals enrolled in SCP and 11% of those who completed credentials.[36] This disparity could be due to the type of credentials being offered by a correctional facility (i.e. whether it be a certificate or a bachelor’s degree) since certain credentials may take more time to complete than others.[36] Regardless, incarcerated women make up a larger proportion of the incarcerated population enrolled in Federal Pell Grant-sponsored educational programs than they make up the incarcerated population to begin with.[39]
College Pell Grants Can Affect Social Outcomes for Incarcerated Women
If Pell Grants persist in their availability to incarcerated populations, they could change socioeconomic outcomes immensely for formerly incarcerated women. Not only could Pell Grants improve educational attainment, and consequently, income among incarcerated women,[31] but it could improve health and personal well-being, employment outcomes, recidivism rates, and break generational cycles.
Health and Well-being
The importance of education on health for incarcerated women is crucial to address. Approximately 80% of women in prison have a diagnosed psychological issue.[1] Women in prison are five times more likely to experience mental health difficulties than women in the general population.[38] Adults who do not have higher education are more likely to smoke and have an unhealthy diet, and be sedentary than those who do have higher education.[10][22][30][35] Living an inactive lifestyle is tied to poorer mental health, so it is in the best interest of incarcerated women to be educated.[14] This way, they are more informed about lifestyle habits that hinder their health and can consciously improve their well-being.
Employment Rates
In 2008, it was estimated that 43.6% of formerly incarcerated black women and 23.3% of formerly incarcerated white women were unemployed.[16] To put this into perspective, this was during the 2008 Great Recession, where 11.7% of women, including 15.3% of black women and 11.1% of white women were unemployed in the general U.S. population.[41] This highlights not only economic disparities, but racial disparities among the formerly incarcerated. While we are not living in the same recession, life post-COVID has left its mark across many fields as many jobs have transitioned between in-person to remote and hybrid models. Additionally, COVID-19 has not prevented growing education expectations in labor-market demands. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of jobs will require college education by 2027.[9] Although many incarcerated women may not complete their degrees while in prison, they can still gain valuable benefits from their college experience, including improved employment opportunities and higher wages compared to peers without any college experience.
Recidivism Rates
It is estimated that 50% of formerly incarcerated women recidivate.[12] Research shows that higher education reduces recidivism rates[7]–one study found that prison education programs reduce recidivism rates by as much as 43%.[11][15] This is because education can give inmates the social facilities to work cooperatively with others, giving them the ability to interact prosocially in other settings and thus, reduce likelihood to offend again.[8][15] The changes in offending rates and positive social change extend beyond just incarcerated women.
Breaking Generational Curses
An analysis by the Prison Policy Initiative found that 72% of women who are incarcerated earned below the poverty line before the beginning of their sentences.[32] It should be noted that more than half of incarcerated women are parents.[24] A mother’s level of education is the strongest predictor of cognitive development in children and is correlated with their likelihood of attaining a college education.[20][2] Given that education is closely tied with income level, incarcerated women who have children and earn college degrees may improve the likelihood that their children will go to college and subsequently also earn more.[5][31] Lastly, Pell Grants for incarcerated women could serve as a protective factor by reducing the likelihood that their children may offend.[15]
Future Considerations
For all the reasons mentioned previously, it is clear that Federal Pell Grants stand to benefit one of the most marginalized groups in the U.S. Still, there is room for improvement.
To demonstrate how, some minority groups are underrepresented amongst people in incarceration who were enrolled in Pell Grant-sponsored educational programs, and it can vary based on gender. Hispanic women make up 19% of the prison population, but only 6% of those who accessed education programs in prison with Pell Grants between 2021-2022.[36] This disparity is similar for incarcerated Hispanic men.[36] Incarcerated African-American women attend Pell Grant programs at a slightly higher rate than the proportion of the incarcerated women population that they make up, while their male counterparts are underrepresented in Pell Grant educational programs by 6%.[36] Native American women are slightly underrepresented in these programs by 1%.[36] Incarcerated white women on the other hand, are overrepresented in Pell Grant programs by 18%.[36]
In short, efforts to promote college education in prisons that incarcerate women need to address racial equity by encouraging women of color–especially Hispanic women–to access resources such as Federal Pell Grants to fund their education. If not, these efforts will only uphold underrepresentation and further marginalization.
This is critical because Hispanic women are the most disenfranchised by the gender wage gap.[40] In 2021, when controlling for similar positions, a report found that Hispanic women and Native American women both make 58 cents relative to every dollar non-Hispanic white men make.[40] Black women make 63 cents per dollar a non-Hispanic white man makes.[40] White women make 79 cents relative to every dollar non-Hispanic white men make.[40] There are many factors which experts contend contribute to the gender pay gap, but encouraging women–especially women of color–to advocate for themselves and seek the means for a higher income by continuing with their education is a good place to start. It’s worth noting that furthering education beyond a high school diploma helps to close this wage gap.[40]
Yet another issue to be addressed is prejudiced hiring practices. It is well-documented that racial and ethnic minorities face discriminatory hiring practices. In one experiment, it was found that employers were more likely to call back or offer work positions to non-Hispanic white male job applicants with criminal records than African-American or Hispanic male applicants who did not have criminal records.[29] In another study, formerly incarcerated Latinas and African-American women were less likely to get a positive response from an employer when applying to a job than formerly incarcerated white women.[25] The inequitable hardship that formerly incarcerated racial minority women in particular face when it comes to job seeking cannot be understated. Education–however helpful on its own–is not enough to change systemic issues stemming from internal biases and inadequate effort towards restorative justice.
In summary, Federal Pell Grants recently permitted for people in incarceration can offer higher education which would increase income to formerly incarcerated women. Additionally, it could enhance physical and psychosocial health outcomes. Given that education could also improve employment, these factors in combination help to lower recidivism rates among those who complete their academic credentials. This has the double benefit of not only rectifying the lives of formerly incarcerated women, but it also has the potential to break harmful generational cycles such as poverty and involvement in criminal behavior in their kids’ lifetimes. The barriers to these benefits is the inequitable utilization of Pell Grants across racial minority groups as well as implicit hiring biases against minorities and more overt biases against those with criminal records. Federal Pell Grants, while monumental in their impact, are just a preliminary solution in closing the gaps between incarcerated women and a life of liberty and justice for all.
References
[1] “10 Things to know about women in prison.” (2021). World Health Organization . www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-determinants/prisons-and-health/focus-areas/womens-health/10-things-to-know-about-women-in-prison
[2] Augustine, J. M. (2017). Increased educational attainment among U.S. mothers and their children’s academic expectations. Research in Social Stratification and Mobility, 52, 15–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rssm.2017.08.001
[7] Choate, B. R., & Normore, A. H. (2013). Leadership’s role in reducing jail violence and recidivism. In A. H. Normore & N. Erbe (Eds.), Advances in Educational Administration (Vol. 20, pp. 163–180). Emerald Group Publishing Limited. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3660(2013)0000020009
[8] Cobbina, J. E. (2010). Reintegration success and failure: Factors impacting reintegration among incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 49(3), 210–232. https://doi.org/10.1080/10509671003666602
How the First Woman Elected as Mexico’s President May Change the Economic Future for Mexican Women
Gabriela Castro June 2024
Mexico held its general election on June 2nd, 2024.[4] The election included voting for the next candidate to hold office for the six-year presidential term following the term of current Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO for short).[4] It was announced that Gloria Sheinbaum of Mexico’s left-wing National Regeneration Movement (Movimiento Regeneración Nacional or MORENA in Spanish) political party won in a landslide, holding about 59.5% of citizens’ votes.[10][1]
In addition to being the first woman elected as Mexico’s president, Sheinbaum holds the highest number of votes in the country’s presidential election history (35.9 million), exceeding current President Obrador’s record of 30.1 million votes in 2018.[1]
Sheinbaum has built her campaign on a myriad of pledges which she has outlined in her agenda,“100 Steps for Transformation.”[13] Many of these pledges are a continuation of AMLO’s political focus, but Sheinbaum is also notably focused on furthering social and economic progress not attributable to her predecessor.[8][13] What exactly are the specifics of these policy changes and how could they change the status quo and economic stability for women?
During his presidency, AMLO has set forth policies to increase minimum wage.[15] He established a minimum wage of 88 pesos (5 US dollars) per day in 2018 with a goal of reaching a minimum wage of 15 USD by the end of his term in 2024.[15] As of 2024, the general minimum wage in Mexico is 248.93 pesos per day (13.48 US dollars) and the minimum wage in the nation’s northern border is 375 pesos per day (20.31 US dollars).[14][5]
Sheinbaum has outlined plans to continue to raise the minimum wage by 11% annually during her term as president.[13] This means that by 2030, Mexico’s general minimum wage would increase to 465.60 pesos per day and 701.41 pesos per day in Mexico’s northern border region.[13][14] This is the equivalent of earning $25.22 and $37.99 daily in the U.S. today.[5]
Raising the minimum wage is critical for Mexico’s “informal workers,” which are employees who work jobs that do not require many skills–such as formal education or extensive training–and are not taxed or subject to government supervision.[12] In essence, this is akin to freelance work, only it is crucial for many households.[2][6]
Given what is known about the nature of informal work, increasing the minimum wage during Sheinbaum’s term would benefit women significantly. Informal work is historically pervasive among women in Mexico.[2] Recently, it was estimated that 56% of women are informal workers.[6] Additionally, informal work is less likely to be voluntary for women than men.[2] This is due to the fact that cutbacks in public sector jobs and lower wages for men force women–particularly those who are older or less educated–into the informal workforce in an effort to supplement and diversify family income.[2] Not only is involuntary work underpaid, but women who are either self-employed and work independently or self-employed while employing other workers still earn considerably less wages than women who are formally employed.[2] The higher market value set on labor due to an increased minimum wage can have the effect of not only increasing income for women who work informally, but also improving standards for those who work formally and women who are self-employed.
Formalizing Informal Labor
On top of informal workers not having labor rights or protection, they also are often not granted social security, pension plans, insurance, access to health care, or paid time off.[12] Informal workers make up 54.5% of Mexico’s workforce.[6] While experts have recommended changing this to allow for growth, there has been a dearth of efforts to actually formalize labor.[7]
Sheinbaum plans to change this by formalizing informal work.[3] This means expanding social security so that it is accessible to informal workers, which can incentivize informal workers to apply to roles which may grant them many benefits which were previously only available to those who work in formal roles.[3] Given that women are the most precarious members of the informal workforce, having social benefits improves prospects in regards to meeting their personal needs.[2]
Offering Pensions
Many older Mexicans cannot retire because they lack retirement savings.[12] Sheinbaum intends to mitigate the issues associated with retirement by providing a partial pension to women ages 60 to 64, equivalent to half of that administered to those 65 and older.[9] This helps assuage financial burden and stress for women who otherwise would be dependent on their spouse, children, or extended family to assist them in older age as their needs may grow. Needless to say, bolstering retirement for women through pensions is one example of the many social benefits that can transform the lives of women at different stages of life.
Takeaways
Sheinbaum trailblazed her way to becoming the first woman elected as president in Mexico’s 200 year history.[11] Multiple policy focuses in her strategic policy agenda, “100 Steps for Transformation,” can advance the way women grow economically and socially.[13] By increasing minimum wage, formalizing freelance work, and expanding pensions, Sheinbaum has the potential to increase standard of living for informal working women, formally working women, self-employed women, and older women who are susceptible to financial hardship. While promising, Sheinbaum’s plan should be enacted as soon as possible to realize the economic freedom Sheinbaum seeks to cultivate for women from all walks of life.
References
[1] Arroyo, L. (2024, June 3). Datos | Sheinbaum, la presidenta más votada en la historia reciente de México. El País México. https://elpais.com/mexico/elecciones-mexicanas/2024-06-03/datos-sheinbaum-la-presidenta-mas-votada-en-la-historia-de-mexico.html
[2] Biles, J. J. (2008). Informal Work and Livelihoods in Mexico: Getting By or Getting Ahead?nformal Work and Livelihoods in Mexico: Getting By or Getting Ahead?∗. The Professional Geographer, 60(4), 541–555. https://doi.org/10.1080/00330120802288743
[3] Dong, Wenchao. (2024, June 14). Top Issues on New President of Mexico’s Labor and Employment Agenda. HRPolicy. https://www.hrpolicy.org/insight-and-research/resources/2024/hr_workforce/public/06/top-issues-on-new-president-of-mexico%e2%80%99s-labor-and/
[4] Elección Federal 2024. (2024). Instituto Nacional Electoral. https://ine.mx/voto-y-elecciones/elecciones-2024/eleccion-federal-2024/
[5] Guagenti, C. (2024, June 14). MXN to USD: Convert Mexican Peso To United States Dollar. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/currency-converter/mxn-usd/
[6] INDICADORES DE OCUPACIÓN Y EMPLEO (206/24). (2024). National Institute of Statistics and Geography. https://www.inegi.org.mx/contenidos/saladeprensa/boletines/2024/IOE/IOE2024_03.pdf
[7] Informal employment in Mexico: Current situation, policies and challenges. (n.d.). International Labor Organization.
[8] Ioanes, E. (2024, June 2). What to know about Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s next president. Vox. https://www.vox.com/politics/353131/claudia-sheinbaum-amlo-lopez-obrador-mexico-elections-politics-morena-pri-pan
[9] Motwani, A. (2024, June 3). Claudia Sheinbaum’s Vision for the Future of Work in Mexico. Mexico Business. https://mexicobusiness.news/talent/news/claudia-sheinbaums-vision-future-work-mexico
[10] NEWS WIRES. (2024, June 3). Ruling leftist party candidate Sheinbaum elected Mexico’s first female president. France 24. https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20240603-sheinbaum-set-to-win-mexico-election-becoming-first-female-president
[11] Rivers, M. (2024, June 3). “Presidenta! Presidenta!” chants fill victory party as 1st female president elected: ANALYSIS. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/International/presidenta-presidenta-chants-fill-victory-party-1st-female/story?id=110772353
[12] Rodriguez Diaz, A. (2023, February 21). How Labor Informality in Mexico Hinders Socioeconomic Progress. HU Econ Review. https://www.economicsreview.org/post/how-labor-informality-in-mexico-hinders-socioeconomic-progress
[13] Sheinbaum proposes double-digit minimum wage increases through 2030. (2024, June 5). América Economía. http://www.americaeconomia.com/en/politics/sheinbaum-proposes-double-digit-minimum-wage-increases-through-2030
[14] Suárez, K. (2023, December 1). El salario mínimo en México aumentará un 20% en 2024. El País México. https://elpais.com/mexico/2023-12-01/el-salario-minimo-en-mexico-aumentara-un-20-en-2024.html
[15] White, K. (2024, January 8). Mexico increases minimum wage by 20% in 2024. https://info.siteselectiongroup.com/blog/mexico-increases-minimum-wage-by-20-in-2024
