Being African-American, Obese, Female, and Residing in an Urban Area: The Lived Experience.

Abstract

The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the experience of being African-American, obese, female, and residing in an urban area. Critical Social Theory of Black Feminist Thought guided the study framework and study questions. Within this framework, African-American women are multidimensional human beings with attitudes, habits, and personalities influenced by their religious beliefs, family, school, friends, and racial history. Interview data were obtained from 10 women and analyzed using qualitative techniques. These individuals were aware of health consequences related to obesity and described barriers that inhibit healthy choices. Participant level of education provided the ability to avoid negative physical and social consequences associated with obesity.