The current emphasis on thinness has had a negative impact on many women and girls who suffer from a negative body image, poor self-concept, and depression, three conditions that often manifest themselves behaviorally through chronic dieting, compulsive exercise, and eating disorders. Socio-cultural factors that have contributed to this emphasis on thinness include messages from the media, a middle- and upper-class preoccupation with health and fitness, and the image promoted by the women's movement. In addition, while the idealized female figure's weight is decreasing, the average woman's weight is increasing. A review of body image research supports the idea that some factor, or cluster of factors, is at work creating feelings of dissatisfaction among women about their bodies and body weight. Research has identified several risk factors as playing some role in the development of negative body image among weight conscious women. Stunkard and Mendelson's (1961) attempt to determine factors related to the development of disturbed body image among obese clients identified three factors: age at onset of obesity (adolescence), neurosis, and parental criticism of obesity. In order to help young women explore and resolve their negative feelings about their bodies and weights, college counselors and educators can offer support services that focus on issues related to body image and self-esteem, stress management and competition, and nutrition and weight management. (NRB)