The Briefing The thin line between empathy and harm + Senator urges Kyle Sandilands sacking
Mar 4, 2026
Professor Gemma Sharp, head of a body image and eating disorder research program at the University of Adelaide, discusses when commenting on someone’s appearance becomes harmful. She explores how to express concern compassionately, the impact of online trolling, media responsibility, GLP-1 medications and atypical anorexia, spotting behavioral red flags, and social media’s mixed role.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Commenting On Bodies Lacks Context And Empathy
- Public commentary on people's bodies often reflects assumptions, not facts, and frequently lacks empathy.
- Gemma Sharp says judging appearance ignores context like grief and health and is therefore inappropriate and harmful.
Raise Concern With Compassionate Listening
- When you're worried about someone, lead with non-judgmental concern rather than focusing on weight or appearance.
- Gemma Sharp recommends a private, compassionate conversation that says I'm worried about you and I'm here to listen and help.
Don’t Troll Offer Support Instead
- Avoid public shaming and trolling; offer simple supportive messages instead.
- Gemma Sharp suggests saying we love and support you and urging professional help rather than armchair diagnoses online.