Body image and its influence on physical activity participation among women ages 45 to 64

Skowron, Maja A.

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/16970 Copy

Description

Title

Body image and its influence on physical activity participation among women ages 45 to 64

Author(s)

Skowron, Maja A.

Issue Date

2010-08-31T20:02:37Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Shinew, Kimberly J.

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Shinew, Kimberly J.

Committee Member(s)

• Stodolska, Monika
• Sydnor, Synthia
• Janke, Megan C.

Department of Study

Recreation, Sport and Tourism

Discipline

Recreation, Sport, and Tourism

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• Body image
• Physical activity
• Motivations
• Middle-aged women
• Self-determination

Abstract

The current study was designed to investigate the role of body image on physical activity levels for women. Self-determination theory, social comparison theory, and constraints theory were utilized as the frameworks of this study. Eighteen in-depth, semi-structured interviews with White women ages 45 to 64 who were already exercising were conducted. Results showed that body image could serve as a motivation, a constraint, or both for physically active women. Social comparison with peers was the most important factor influencing body image. Women identified their physical activity levels, types of activities, and motivators and constraints impacting physically active leisure. Moreover, the self-definition of physical activity was discussed.

Graduation Semester

2010-08

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/16970

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2010 Maja Anna Skowron

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