Gender Differences in Diverse Connotations of Body Image: Islamabad-Rawalpindi Milieu

The present ethnographic study focused on the indigenous youth perception of ‘body image’ and diverse connotations associated with it. The research has highlighted gender differences observed in the defining of body image. A qualitative methodology of in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions were employed. The sample included late adolescents (aged 18-24) and early adults (24-34) from the area of Islamabad and Rawalpindi (Pakistan). Purposive sampling was applied and thematic analysis was used as qualitative paradigm. The number of respondents comprised of 15 male and 15 females, of which each 5 were gym-goers. According to the findings, the definition of body image by women was stated in the context of body perception and feelings, beautification, and idealized body image which leads to appearance dissatisfaction. It involved body presentation and impression individually and collectively, body type dichotomy and measurements, as well as personality reflected through dressing sense. It was defined by men as being muscular and having proportioned body, impression formation, heightened. It also involved body type dichotomies, ones gait, being slim and not bulky, dressing sense, and behavioral characteristics. Conclusively, being a part of collectivistic culture, emphasis on the expectations and opinions of the society was commonly identified in both gender responses regarding body image perception. For many it was a topic of appearance and impression formation, which further fed two attitudes: appearing good for oneself and for others around them. These feelings were produced under the influence of societal and media portrayal of ideal body image.