Visit of prof. Marios Argyrides to the Institute of Psychology
The Faculty of Historical and Pedagogical Sciences at the University of Wrocław will be hosting prof. Marios Argyrides as part of the IDUB Visiting Professors Programme.
As part of his visit, a lecture and workshop are scheduled to take place on Monday, 23 June, at the Institute of Psychology (ul. Dawida 1):
- 12:15–13:45 – Workshop: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Individuals with Visible Differences and Body Image Concerns
- 14:00–15:30 – Lecture: Reflections of Beauty: Social Media, Body Ideals, and Mental Health
(Location: Lecture Hall, Institute of Psychology)
We warmly invite students, staff, and anyone interested in the topics of mental health and body image to attend.
Lecture
This 1.5-hour lecture will delve into the powerful role that traditional and social media play in shaping contemporary standards of beauty and how these often unrealistic and narrowly defined ideals impact the psychological well-being of both men and women. We will examine how repeated exposure to idealized images influences body image, self-esteem, and personal identity, drawing on current psychological and sociocultural research. Special attention will be given to the gendered nature of these pressures—how women are often driven toward thinness and flawlessness, while men face increasing demands to attain muscular and hypermasculine physiques. The lecture will also address the unique impact of social media platforms, where curated and filtered content further distorts perceptions of reality. Through case studies and interactive discussion, we will explore the consequences of these influences, including body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, anxiety, and depression. Finally, we will consider strategies to build media literacy and promote psychological resilience among individuals and communities.
Workshop
This interactive workshop will focus on the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for individuals living with visible differences and body image concerns. Over the course of the session, participants will be introduced to the core principles of ACT—including psychological flexibility, mindfulness, and values-based action—and how these can be applied to support individuals in navigating body-related distress and social stigma. We will explore how experiential avoidance and self-criticism often intensify suffering, and how ACT interventions can help individuals shift from struggle to acceptance, fostering a more compassionate and empowered relationship with their bodies. The workshop will include case examples, guided exercises, and opportunities for practical skills development, aiming to equip clinicians, students, and support professionals with tools to enhance emotional well-being, self-worth, and quality of life among those affected by visible differences or body image challenges.
Bio
Professor Marios B. Argyrides is a distinguished clinical psychologist and esteemed educator with international accreditation from the American Psychological Association. His research focuses on beauty standards and body image, as well as on developing effective psychotherapeutic methods for individuals struggling with body image disturbances — a key challenge of the 21st century, particularly in the context of the influence of social media on young people. Professor Argyrides has led or participated in 13 research projects with a total value exceeding 20 million PLN.
Date of publication: 9.06.2025
Added by: M.K.
