Does the typical male high school student worry about how people are looking at him? Do males ever talk to each other about body image? Tech’s journalism class found the answers to these and other questions in a survey of more than 200 Tech students, conducted from March 27 to March 31. The survey was part of a yearlong study of nutrition, diet and exercise, sponsored by the Public Media Group. A total of 84 males in grades 9 through 12 responded to the survey, which asked for information on a wide range of topics, from how much fast food they ate to how they look at themselves and other people.

Generally speaking, males who responded to the survey were conscious of their health and looks, but such body image issues were not their primary concern. However several students expressed their concern about playing sports, feeling “sexy”, and not becoming a victim of negative humor.

"I am a little more heavy-set than most people of my age, I don't often think about my weight, I usually eat right and usually get enough physical activity to suffice. I think I’m heavy and have not heard (negative remarks),” said an anonymous Caucasian respondent.

In the survey, athletes appeared to be worried about their own physical condition based on the sport they play. They consider themselves physically fit if they play a varsity sport. Certain sports depend on players to stay in good condition and to gain or lose weight in order to play. Athletes do not worry about their physical condition because they constantly work out.

"I am not concerned about my weight or physical condition, because I run track. I am in great shape, No one cares about the way I look because everyone is skinny," said Dung Le Nguyen, a member of Tech’s track and field team.

Tech varsity quarterback Anthony McCrady noted he might need to bulk up in order to keep playing.



"As an athlete, I have a football figure but I may need to gain weight to compete at the next level," said McCrady, a senior.

In the surveys, respondents were conscious of the way they are supposed to look in public, but they do not worry about it.

"No I am not concerned about my weight at this time day and age, I feel that my bodily feature is what most people want. I am not trying to make it seem as if I am full of myself, I'm just speaking the truth." said Damon Hodges, a senior.

"I don't really pay much attention to society's expectations or alleged norms. I used to be very overweight and I was on occasion but not frequently made fun of,” said Clark Bilorusky.

Nevertheless, Bilorusky and several others respondents who decide to change continue to constantly watch their physical condition, balancing their eating habits and exercising all the time to remain constantly fit.

The bottom line is, males do not worry about their personal physical appearance. Several respondents stated that it is usually females in their culture who are judged on looks and physical condition. Others respondents saw the difference between their physical appearance and the appearance of others, but still saw themselves in good physical condition. Others saw the importance of staying fit, but their life styles are subconsciously in line with a healthy approach in daily life.

"I feel that my image is important. I feel good about myself. I feel sexy; I know how to cook fine food which I consume everyday." said a Latino respondent.