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Body and Hidden Mirrors: A Qualitative Analysis of Single Young Women’s Attitudes toward Body Image

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Full Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

2 PhD Student in Sociology, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

3 Master’s Student, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

Body image refers to an individual’s perceptions, feelings, and evaluations of their physical appearance. With the pervasive influence of the media in the modern, globalized world, body image has emerged as a critical issue. This qualitative study investigates the perspectives of unmarried women in Tabriz, aged 18 to 35, regarding their body image. Twenty participants were chosen for semi-structured interviews using purposive sampling in accordance with demographic criteria. The results indicate that solitary young women are confronted with a conflict between self-acceptance and societal expectations. Media frequently depicts idealized and exaggerated body standards, which exacerbates social comparisons that contribute to body dissatisfaction and diminished self-confidence. Although some participants challenge these norms by emphasizing health and redefining personal values, a significant number of them experience social rejection, which can result in feelings of isolation or a desire to modify their physical appearance. These findings underscore the substantial impact of sociocultural factors on body image and identity formation. The research demonstrates that single women’s attitudes toward their bodies are influenced by a multifaceted interplay of personal, social, and cultural factors. Thus, body image is not solely a psychological experience that is unique to an individual, but a dynamic construct that is rooted in broader social and cultural contexts. This research underscores the significance of comprehending body image within these interconnected frameworks in order to confront the obstacles that young women encounter today.

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References
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Woman in Development & Politics
Volume 23, Issue 3
October 2025
Pages 533-562
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