This paper is a review of literature regarding internalization of Western culture's thin-ideal. The media's portrayal of a thin-ideal associates success and beauty with being thin. Research has shown that exposure to the culture's thin-ideal does not necessarily lead to eating pathology, but those who internalize the standard are more likely to experience body dissatisfaction and eating disorder symptoms. Several researchers have adopted the sociocultural theory and others maintain that individuals are incorporating the thin-ideal into their sense of self and beliefs. Internalization is correlated with various co-factors, such as depression, personality, self-esteem, and relationships. Treatments for internalization if the thin-ideal have been somewhat successful. (Contains 57 references.) (Author)