A study by Flinders University reveals that family and cultural dynamics significantly influence body image and eating behaviors among young women in Australia and Lebanon, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive interventions.
New research from Flinders University has brought new insights into the complex relationship between family dynamics, culture and body image among young women. The study, published in the journal Body Image, surveyed over 850 women aged 18 to 25 in Australia and Lebanon, revealing how different cultural and familial influences shape body appreciation and eating behaviors.
Led by Melanie Deek, a registered psychologist and doctoral candidate in Flinders University’s College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, the study examined the nuanced roles that mothers and sisters play in the development of body dissatisfaction, body appreciation and eating patterns.
Challenging Assumptions on Body Image
While both Australian and Lebanese women reported similar levels of body dissatisfaction, significant differences emerged in their levels of body appreciation.
“Our findings challenge commonly held assumptions that negative body image is universally experienced in the same way,” Deek said in a news release. “Middle-Eastern women, in particular, showed stronger body appreciation, which may reflect cultural values and close family relationships that promote self-acceptance.”
Deek suggests that family and cultural values in the Middle East may play a crucial role in fostering a more positive body image.
“This suggests that family and cultural values in the Middle East may help foster a more positive view of one’s body, which could serve as a potential protective factor for negative body-image and disordered eating behaviors,” she added.
Family’s Role in Shaping Body Image
The study highlights the significant impact of family, especially mothers, on both positive and negative body image outcomes.
“Mothers, more than sisters, were found to have a consistently stronger impact when it came to shaping eating behaviors and body image,” added Deek.
Interestingly, the study found that while Middle-Eastern women reported more frequent “fat talk” — conversations about weight and appearance — within their families, these discussions often led to positive outcomes, such as increased body appreciation. This suggests a more intricate cultural dynamic at play.
Mindful Eating and Health Benefits
Differences in eating behaviors were also noted, with Middle-Eastern women more likely to engage in mindful eating practices, such as eating without distractions.
“Their focus on mindful eating may contribute not only to healthier eating habits but also to a more positive body image,” Deek added.
Expert Opinions and Future Directions
Senior author Ivanka Prichard, a professor at Flinders University and a body image expert, emphasized that these findings challenge the notion that body image concerns are predominantly Western.
“Western beauty ideals are spreading globally, but this study shows that cultural and familial factors still play a powerful role in shaping how young women see themselves,” Prichard said in the news release.
“To effectively address body dissatisfaction and disordered eating, we must develop culturally tailored interventions — not one-size-fits-all solutions,” she added.
Going forward, the team plans on including more Middle-Eastern regions in their study, particularly areas that are less influenced by Western beauty norms, and exploring how these findings translate in multicultural societies like Australia.
“Our work underscores the need for inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches to promote positive body image and healthy eating behaviors across the globe,” Deek concluded.
Source: Flinders University