Society often places a tremendous amount of value in the outward appearance of an individual. Do you think this amplifies the obstacles many people face?

Yes.

Explanation:

When society values the external appearance of the individual more, instead of his qualities, the obstacles that this individual faces may be increased, if that person does not fit the standards of beauty that a given society faces.

This prevents really talented and skilled people from working for our society and making improvements in different sectors of society.

For this reason, it is important that society values people for their qualities and abilities and not for their appearance.