A phenomenological exploration of Indian women's body image within intersecting identities in a globalizing nation

Abstract

The goal of the study was to examine Indian women's body image experiences utilizing an intersectional framework. Using phenomenological method, the study attempted to explore how experiences of gender oppression intersect with salient social identities to produce experiences of body dissatisfaction in Indian women. Thirty-Five Indian women in the age group 18–40 years participated in semi-structured interviews. Overall, women experienced and discussed their bodies in terms of physical features they liked and disliked. Three themes emerged that comprised body image experiences of Indian women- (a) Beautiful, thin and fair- three social imperatives for women, (b) Internalization and (c) Body image management. Each of these impacted women negatively and contributed to greater body monitoring, increased indulgence in unhealthy behaviours and heightened body dissatisfaction. Women also discussed coping techniques for managing such experiences. Researchers and practitioners are encouraged to take into account culturally constructed beauty norms and unique socio-cultural factors for Indian women that determine body image. Findings are interpreted in the context of evolving socio-cultural norms that have recolonised Indian women's embodiment in a globalizing nation.