B1 – Intermediate
In recent times, we have seen a revolution in people’s interest in physical health. More and more people exercise and go to the gym, including teenagers and young people in their early 20s.
However, an increasing number of youths are suffering from a psychological disorder called muscle dysmorphia or bigorexia.
Read the article about the rise in the number of young people suffering from bigorexia and be ready to answer the questions that follow.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2502/250224-bigorexia-muscle-dysmorphia.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “self-image” mean? “Bigorexia is a psychological condition…which involves a distorted self-image that focuses specifically on muscle size and physical appearance.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘self-image’ in your own sentence.
- What does “exacerbate” mean? “Social media may be a factor in exacerbating the problem.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘exacerbate’ in your own sentence.
- What does “overwhelm” mean? “Youngsters can be overwhelmed with images of people with the “perfect” body.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ’overwhelm’ in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Is the same happening to young people in your country? Talk about it in detail.
- What might be the factors that contribute to the rise of youths getting anxious about their muscles?
- Should there be stricter regulations on muscle-building supplements and anabolic steroids? Share your insights.
- How can cases of bigorexia be reduced?
- What other disorders could youngsters suffer from and what do you think leads to these conditions?