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Body Image and Emotional Wellbeing of Asian Indian Immigrant Adolescents in New Zealand

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Thesis is embargoed until 20 November 2025(3.42 MB)

Date

2023

Authors

Supervisor

Mpofu, Charles
Nakhid, Camille
Krishnamurthi, Rita

Item type

Degree name

Doctor of Philosophy

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Auckland University of Technology

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between body image and emotional wellbeing among immigrant Indian adolescents in New Zealand. Body image refers to the thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and beliefs that individuals hold about their bodies; including shape, size, weight, and functionality. It plays a significant role in self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and overall emotional wellbeing. Body image is influenced by biological and psychological factors, as well as social and interpersonal interactions. The study employed a qualitative research design, utilising in-depth semi-structured interviews with 13 participants to collect data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected data from a critical realist perspective. Theoretical frameworks, such as ‘social comparison theory’ and ‘learned helplessness theory’, are applied to make sense of the data and provide deeper insights into the experiences of immigrant Indian adolescents. The findings reveal both positive and negative aspects related to the interplay of body image and emotional wellbeing among immigrant Indian adolescents in New Zealand. On one hand, after moving to New Zealand, participants experienced reduced pressure related to their own bodily features, leading to more positive body image and higher emotional wellbeing. Thematic analysis of the data revealed themes such as increased body acceptance. On the other hand, participants reported challenges associated with their bodily features that affiliate them with their ethnicity in New Zealand. They discussed instances of bullying, discrimination, and a lack of validation and acceptance from the white majority. Thematic analysis identified themes of racism and the impact of negative social interactions on body image and emotional wellbeing. These negative experiences had detrimental effects on participants’ self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. Based on the findings, several interventions to address these issues are proposed. Policy recommendations include the initiation of tailored social services, establishment of inclusive counselling and support systems, implementation of staff training programmes, diverse representation in decision-making boards, mandated diverse media content, and promotion of immigrant integration through awareness of diversity policies. In conclusion, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the body image and emotional wellbeing of immigrant Indian adolescents in New Zealand. The utilisation of in-depth interviews and thematic analysis through a critical realist perspective enhances the depth and richness of the findings. The application of social comparison theory and learned helplessness theory further contributes to the interpretation and understanding of the data. The findings have implications for developing targeted interventions and support strategies to promote positive body image and emotional wellbeing among immigrant Indian adolescents. Future research should extend to other ethnic minority groups and age cohorts within the migratory context.

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http://hdl.handle.net/10292/16959

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