False Bodies, True Selves

False Bodies, True Selves explores the phenomenon of growing numbers of people in western society and beyond completely embedding their sense of identity in their appearance. Unlike other books which address either theoretical models of appearance-focused identity struggles or explore lived experiences of appearance-based battles, False Bodies delves into both. Importantly, the spiritual aspects of what it is to become enemies with one's body are given centre stage in the context of Donald Winnicott's theory of the true Self and the false Self. The book begins by looking at some of the myths, superstitions and fairy tales related to mirrors before moving on to western society's current obsession with appearance, which seems to have been compounded by the mass media. After looking at some of the most common manifestations of appearance-focused anguish including eating disorders and body dysmorphia, it begins to unpick the possible underlying meanings beneath such struggles with a particular emphasis on issues of a systemic nature.

Nicole Schnackenberg

Foreword , Introduction , Mirrors and Myths , Mirrors and misplaced identities , Embodiment and perceived ugliness , Disturbed selves, disturbed eating , Altered appearances, questioned identities , Gender, sexuality, and the pursuit of authenticity , Skin: a canvas for self-expression , Shadows of childhood , Embraced emotions , Interlude: processes of sight and perception , Spiritual Aspects of Psychological Distress , A mindful return to the body , Wholeness through an embrace of the darkness , From false selves to true Selves: returning home , Appendices , Taking action , Supporting and overcoming as a family , Mindfulness and body awareness practices for appearance struggles , Avenues of support and further reading