Final answer:
People suggest that fashion models set an unhealthy standard of beauty because they often portray a very slim body type that is unrealistic for the average population, potentially leading to health issues like eating disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concern that fashion models set an unhealthy standard of beauty for girls and women is commonly attributed to the way that models are often portrayed in the media. These models typically have very slim body types that may not reflect the average body shape of the population and could promote unrealistic and unhealthy body image goals for some individuals. This perception can lead to various health issues, including eating disorders, poor self-esteem, and an unhealthy relationship with food and exercise. Critics argue that such narrowly defined beauty standards can pressure individuals to achieve an unrealistic body type, which might lead to physical and mental health problems.