Body Image Perception among Women of African Descent: A Normative Context?

The purpose of this article is to integrate research from across the social sciences in order to understand Black women's body image perceptions. To accomplish this goal, the effects of race, ethnicity, class and culture are examined. Cultural differences between African Canadians/Americans and Blacks living in Africa and the Caribbean are outlined and their effects on Black women's experiences of weight and eating are also discussed. Some of the historical underpinnings, and several aspects of the current social context within which Black women live are explored in order to explain body image perceptions.

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