25th October 2013 9:00
By Blue Tutors
Recently, a study suggested that teachers be trained how to deliver classes on body image, focussing on building students’ self-esteem. Focussing on teenage girls, the study looked at 261 teenagers who were given a six lesson course on body image. The findings reported by King’s College London showed that lessons on body image can have a significant impact on students’ well-being. Psychologists at the university recommended that teachers be trained to give these lessons to respond to the fact that one in three teenagers say that they are dissatisfied with their body.
Poor body image may appear to be normal for teenagers, but it is strongly linked to depression and eating disorders in young people. Although the study recommends training for school teachers, and permanent changes to the curriculum may be a long way off. Further, it is difficult for students to discuss any anxiety they are feeling, particularly in large classes. It is necessary to ask what we as private tutors can do to help spot problems and ensure that our students are not suffering in silence. Anxiety and eating disorders can range from mild and intermittent, to chronic conditions which are in danger of serious affecting students’ education. It is not the job of a private tutor to act as a counsellor for their students, and I am not suggesting that tutors take on this role. Tutors are paid to enhance their students’ understanding of their subjects, and, where exam are being taken, to try to help the student achieve the best result possible.
However, any tutor knows that in order for students to do the best they can, they need to be able to focus on work. Anxiety can seriously impact a student’s ability to work, and eating disorders, if left untreated, can ruin students’ lives. Tutors need to ensure that their students are in the optimum state for work. Where students are experiencing normal anxiety levels, it is appropriate for tutors to offer support and encouragement. But where a tutor feels that their student is suffering from deeper anxiety, they should discuss the situation with their students’ parents where appropriate, and ensure that their students get the help they need to succeed.