Why do looks matter?

Andri Steinþór Björnsson, Professor at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Psychology, will discuss the impact of thoughts on how you look on the mental well being of children and young people. The talk is a part of the new series “University in society - the best choices for our children.”

Andri will try to shed light on why appearances matter so much to us, and when emphasis on our looks become  psychological problem, such as eating disorders, and body dysmorphic disorder; not well know among the general public but a common and often serious mental disorder.

Andri's talk will be held in the University's Aula in the Main Building and is part of the series University  in society -  the best choices for our children. The talk is on Thursday 22 March at 12 and will be held in Icelandic.  

There will be a live stream from the event.

The series

The Rector of University of Iceland launched an annual series of lectures at the beginning of the year called “University in Society.” The lectures aim at engaging the public and professionals in discussions on pressing social issues. The first series pertains to the welfare of children and youth. 

A wide range of subjects are addressed, including anxiety and psychological health, how to support literacy, ways to promote children’s participation in sports and out-of-school activities, the importance and effects of nutrition and sleep for healthy functioning, and the role of parenting and positive communications in children’s development.