‘My body isn’t perfect, and I get quite anxious’: a qualitative exploration of body image dissatisfaction among Chinese female undergraduates
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Body image dissatisfaction (BID) is relatively common in Chinese female undergraduates. This study aims to explore the reasons for BID among female undergraduates to develop effective early intervention strategies. DESIGN: A qualitative research approach was used through semi-structured interviews, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the experiences of participants. SETTING: The study was conducted from April 2024 to November 2024 at Yibin University in Sichuan province, China. PARTICIPANTS: The study involved 25 female undergraduates with an average age of 19.8±1.3 years. These participants were selected to provide rich qualitative data about their experiences and views regarding BID. RESULTS: The participants showed a high level of BID, and the thematic analysis revealed five overarching themes regarding the causes of BID among female undergraduates: (1) individual factors; (2) media factors; (3) family factors; (4) peer factors; and (5) overall societal impact. CONCLUSION: The thematic analysis revealed that dissatisfaction with body image among female undergraduates is a multidimensional issue influenced by various factors, including individual and sociocultural elements. The conclusion emphasises the necessity of strengthening comprehensive intervention measures to address these influencing factors.
Source: BMJ Open
Authors: Danli He, Ching Sin Siau, Hui Chin Koo, Yimei Zheng, Ping He, Harvinder Kaur Gilcharan Singh
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,839
Award: G3700364713
OpenAlex ID: W4414883279