Imagem corporal na infância: uma investigação qualitativa

Abstract

Objective: Investigate actions (beliefs, behaviors, affects and body satisfaction), related to the body image of children between 06 and 08 years old, from the city of Juiz de Fora, MG. Method: The participants were 32 boys and 32 girls, students of public schools, with an average of 7.15 (SD=0.64) years old. The children were divided into 8 groups, 4 composed only of girls and 4 of boys. Each group had 8 individuals participating. The focus group technique was used. The meetings happened on alternate days and had the average duration of 60 minutes. The sections were recorded in audio and video and, later, transcribed for analysis. The data obtained were treated with the Bardin’s Content Analysis technique (2010) e with descriptive statistics. The mass and body height were measured to estimate the nutritional status of the participants. Results: It was verified, from the categories, self portrait e body appearance, of themes and words expressed in the comments of the participating children that, since childhood, the relation established among the body, the family, friends and the media results in considerable socio-cultural influences on attitudinal dimension focused on the body image during childhood. Beliefs, thoughts and feelings to the body emerged in the focus group, which supports the idea of possible body dissatisfaction since the early ages. The results of the main research showed significant similarities and differences between boys and girls with respect to the multifaceted construct of body image. The boys were concerned about the definition, especially of the abdomen, with muscularity and skin color. Skills and superpowers were also emphasized as relevant to the characters of the male media. The girls were more concerned with their hair and thinness. Attendance to the gym to achieve an ideal body, as well as the importance of accessories, shoes and clothing were highlighted by both genders. Comments from the boys focused on sexuality should be highlighted in the research. It is noted that the media was considered as a major risk factor for the ideal body stereotype and consequent dissatisfaction with appearance. The concern with comments and acceptance of friends was a factor that emerged in the groups. Moreover, the similarities with the body and the preferences related to family emerged in several moments. Final Considerations: Although this qualitative study does not intend generalizations, its findings underscore the importance of considering strategies should be valued in schools and with the families so they will fully promote the aspect of human development and the education of the children, considering the good body image.