Philippine E-Journals

Demystifying the Encounters of Teenagers on Body Shaming

Richelle Jie Paña | Nisil Ofianga | Dan Mark Oracoy | Alexa Samantha Andulana | Jenifer Alcomendras | Jean Claude Avanceña | Kier Garcia | Jonathan Peñaflor | Fritz Gerard Mondragon

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This study revolves around the encounters of teenagers regarding body shaming. Specifically, the study determines the teenagers' coping mechanisms and their insights on body shaming. The purpose of this study is to highlight the detrimental role of body shaming among teenagers, which is consistent with the fact that it frequently causes low self-esteem, low body dissatisfaction, and depressive symptoms among teenagers in the Municipality of Midsayap. Purposive sampling was used, including six teenagers selected per sex category, living in the Municipality of Midsayap, aged 13-19. This study utilized a qualitative research design through one- on-one interviews, specifically phenomenological. Data were analyzed through the thematic analysis of Braun and Clarke (2006) . Study showed that insecurities about body weight, unhealthy eating habits, insulting comments, low self-esteem, mental health issues, and distracted academic responsibilities were the challenges encountered by teenagers. Moreover, it was also revealed that teenagers cope with challenges by embracing themselves, seeking help to lose weight, unwinding, avoiding social media, and unhealthy eating habits and sleep schedules. In addition, results showed that ceasing body shaming, being sensitive, minding one's own body, and building one's self-confidence were the insights of teenagers on body shaming as a victim of it. The study's findings led the researchers to conclude that body shaming can damage and leave lifelong trauma to the teenager's mental, physical, and social well-being. With the presented information, programs relating to body weight diversity and body shaming awareness should be implemented to lessen body shaming in society.