An exploration of women's experiences regarding their weight status within a feminist and social constructionist framework
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Date
2004
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Western Cape
Abstract
The phenomenon of obesity is widespread and the obese are increasingly making
use of weight loss programmes specifically focused on addressing this population
group' s needs. With the increase in statistics regarding obesity comes a
simultaneous increase in society's focus on the body-thin ideal. It is in this context
that the current study explores women's experiences regarding their weight status.
The women in this study all participated in the Healthy Weight Programme at the
Sports Science Institute, Cape Town. This programme addresses both the exercise
and the eating plan necessary for healthy living. The aims of the study were
threefold, namely, to explore what factors the participants believe cause their
overweight status, what coping strategies they employ as a buffer against
difficulties that may arise as a result of their overweight status (stigmatization and
prejudice), and what impact the overweight status has on their psychological
wellbeing.
Description
Magister Artium (Psychology) - MA(Psych)
Keywords
Weight status, Feminist, Obesity, Cape Town