Female body perception: social norms, criticism, and the impact of weight perception.

Purpose: This study aims to explore the multifaceted nature of women's body perception and the personal and social factors that influence it. The research investigates how societal expectations, health concerns, and self-perception intersect in shaping women's views of their own bodies.

Methods: Adopting a phenomenological approach, this qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with 30 women aged 18-65 from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The data collection tool-a structured interview form-was developed through a literature review and expert consultation, and it was piloted for validity. Interviews were conducted both face-to-face and online, transcribed, and then analyzed using a phenomenologically informed thematic analysis. Three major themes were identified through high inter-rater agreement (over 90%): Physical Features and Health, Societal Pressures and Criticism, and Self-Perception and Emotions.

Results: Findings indicate that women's body perception is shaped by intersecting factors such as age, media portrayals, cultural norms, social surroundings, and lived experiences. Within the theme of Physical Features and Health, concerns around "Weight and Health" emerged most frequently, revealing the strong link between body perception and health consciousness.

Conclusions: The study underscores the need for social and educational interventions that promote body positivity and challenge restrictive beauty norms.