Exploring the Appearance Culture in Early Adolescence
Tóm tắt
Despite the heightened awareness of body image concerns in early adolescence, there has been little research in Ireland regarding young people’s own perspectives on associated factors. Eight focus groups with young adolescents were conducted to explore common perceptions and influential processes occurring within the current Irish appearance culture. Three main themes emerged reflecting (a) appearance-related norms and processes operating in young adolescents’ immediate environment, (b) means by which more distal levels of sociocultural influences are transmitted, and (c) individual characteristics that shape the experience of the appearance culture. On the whole, the appearance-related values and behaviors of significant others were highly influential, especially those of peers. Cultural norms were evident in the young adolescents’ conceptions of the ideal body, and these appeared to be further negotiated and reinforced in proximal contexts. The collective interaction in the focus group discussions allowed alternative perspectives to be considered and generated new insights and perceptions. Outcomes indicate that the transmission of processes from distal and proximal environments are often interrelated and highlight the need to place greater emphasis on the interactive nature of sociocultural influences and the multiple processes by which appearance-related messages are transmitted.
Từ khóa
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