An Exploration of Positive Body Image-Related Strategies in Children’s Picture Books (Poster 21)

• In Event: Thursday Poster Session 9:00 am
  In Poster Session: Social and Emotional Learning

Abstract

This study examined body image-related strategies in 50 children's picture books, focusing on body image through content analysis based on the lens of positive body image perspectives. Four main strategies for promoting positive body image emerged from the study including body appreciation, inner positivity, perceived support for protective filtering, and adaptive body investment. This study also examined how these strategies were presented for promoting positive body image through text and pictures. This study fills a gap in the current literature regarding positive body image-related messages for young children. Findings clarify how children’s picturebooks can be used to encourage young children to love, respect, and take care of their own and others’ bodies physically and mentally.

Authors

• Tingting Xu, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Yuan He, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Flóra Faragó, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Sarah Savoy, Stephen F. Austin State University