Experiences of body image and social support in physical activity programs among older adult women
Date
2019-08-01
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Abstract
Body image is an emerging area of research for older women as they may experience societal pressures in relation to the body while concurrently experiencing physical decline associated with aging. Social support may impact how one feels about the body in times of coping with difficulties, as well as promoting thriving when feeling positively about the body. Group physical activity programs are an opportunity to address body image through benefits of physical activity on how one views the body as well as providing access to social networks that may positively impact body image. The current study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of body image and social support in physical activity programs. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 women aged 65 and older, who participated in drop in group physical activity classes at a community recreation centre. The study was guided by interpretive description and interview questions pertained to how body image was impacted by social support, and physical activity. The group physical activity context allowed women to make comparisons with others and to engage in discussions with others, that helped to feel positively about the body. Women also discussed the role of the instructor in facilitating participation in activity that allowed them to feel positively about the body. Both support in times of non-adversity and support in times of coping with body difficulties, helped to create a positive experience in physical activity and with the body.
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Body Image, Physical Activity, Social Support
Citation
Patterson, M. C. (2019). Experiences of body image and social support in physical activity programs among older adult women (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.