Perceptions of self-image : a comparative study of White and African urban females in university gyms.
Date
2009-03-26T07:53:31Z
Authors
Van Schalkwyk, Lameez
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Abstract
The primary aim of the research attempted to investigate whether ethnic
differences in self-image existed amongst White and African females. It further
investigated whether specific factors such as family, peer relations and psychosocial
factors (specifically perceptions regarding the media) have had a positive or negative
influence on weight. Additionally it explored whether black females may still
perceive a fuller figure as being more acceptable or whether changes have occurred
within past and/or present ideologies. The study used both qualitative and quantitative
analysis. In order to establish whether ethnicity was significantly different from BMI,
BSQ, SATAQ-3, t-tests (non-parametric one-way ANOVA comparisons) were
performed. Ethnicity was not significantly different in relation to the dependent
variables BSQ; overall SATAQ-3 scores and its dimensions; and affirmation,
belonging and commitment of the MEIM. However significant differences were
found between BMI, the overall MEIM and its subscale ethnic identity. Low and high
scores of the MEIM revealed no differences across all measurement instruments used
within the study, demonstrating no effect upon BSQ or the SATAQ-3 and its
subscales. However there was a significant difference found between ethnic groups
with regard to BMI. Fisher’s –z was used to conduct comparisons between the
correlations established using Pearson’s Rank Coefficient Correlations. The results
indicated that significant relationships did exist between the BSQ, specific subscales
of the SATAQ-3, and BMI. Results obtained from Fisher’s-z revealed significant
differences on the BSQ and SATAQ-3 (including its subscales) correlations. Multiple
Regression was conducted to establish whether BMI, MEIM and SATAQ-3 have had
an impact upon the outcome of BSQ. The comparisons revealed that BMI and
sociocultural factors may have an impact upon the perceptions of body shape and size.
Major themes identified within the qualitative analysis were culture, inherited
concepts, media, family, friends and parental (mother) influences amongst others. The
results revealed that White females may experience greater body dissatisfaction.
African females had stated that their body concept is influenced by ethnicity, while
White females communicated media and stereotyped images of white females as
being the source of pressure to loose weight.
Description
Keywords
Ethnicity, BMI, Body concept, Sociocultural influences, Thin ideals