Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2025

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
"Make sure that everybody feels there is a space for them": Understanding and promoting appearance inclusivity at
Emma Waite1, Jade Parnell1, Ella Guest1
1Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England (UWE), Coldharbour lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
Abstract:
Appearance concerns are a pervasive issue affecting many university students and contributing to poor psychosocial and academic outcomes. To combat these, action is needed by universities to promote appearance inclusivity. The current study used inductive qualitative methods to explore students' lived and/or living experiences and concerns relating to their physical appearance and views on how to achieve an appearance inclusive university. Seventeen students aged 19-55 from a UK university participated in online semi-structured interviews (n=12) and focus groups (n=5). Thirteen participants were women, three were men, and one was non-binary. Interviews and focus groups were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Students identified several ways appearance concerns had negatively impacted them and supported an increased focus on appearance inclusivity at university. Three themes were developed: 1) appearance has a big impact on my university life; 2) it's not the same for everyone (i.e., individual differences and intersectionality impact students' experiences); and 3) intentional change is needed (i.e., change is necessary to improve appearance inclusivity, but it should be consciously thought out). Strategies to improve appearance inclusivity should be prioritised and carefully considered to avoid tokenism and ensure they centre the needs of those from underrepresented groups.
More Related Videos
09:55Bridging the Technology Divide in the COVID-19 Era: Using Virtual Outreach to Expose Middle and High School Students to Imaging Technology
Published on: September 28, 2022
08:27Applying an eMASS Customization Program as a Research Tool to Evaluate Consumer Benefits
Published on: September 27, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Relationship Formation
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Stereotype Content Model