Episode 76: Dr. Gemma Sharp, Senior Research Fellow at Monash University, shares how body image impacts our lives and so much more

Catherine and Francis welcome Dr. Gemma Sharp, Senior Research Fellow at Monash University and clinical phycologist, to the podcast. Her research focuses on understanding the causes of and developing novel treatments for body image issues and related disorders. In this conversation, Dr. Sharp shares what drove her to this important work and what about body image issues keeps her coming back to do more research, including around genital body image concerns across the gender spectrum, a fascinating topic that deepens the understanding of what influences self-perspectives. She also introduces us to KIT, an online chatbox which is designed to educate and provide information about body image issues for those seeking help. Dr. Sharp’s expertise in this field of study is much needed and feels validating, especially for those who have experienced negative body image throughout their lives. We are so grateful for her time and energy, and we hope you enjoy!

CW: eating disorder behaviors, pandemic related anxiety, body image conversation, genital body image concerns