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body image

How a person sees, thinks and feels about their own body and its appearance and function.

BOD-ee IM-ij noun

What it means

Body image can change with surgery (an amputation, mastectomy or ostomy), burns, weight change, aging, pregnancy and illness. A disturbed body image can lead to withdrawal, depression or eating disorders.

For the nurse

Let the client look at or touch the changed body part when they are ready, listen to their feelings, and offer support groups or counseling.

At a glance

Spanishimagen corporal

Related terms

self-care

The things people do for themselves to look after their own health and daily needs.

vitiligo

A long-term skin condition in which patches of skin lose their color.

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