Body Image of Females in Aviation Analysing Influencing Factors and Effective Strategies

Abstract

Body image is the internal representation of oneand#8242;s external appearance and encompasses self perceptions related to the body and personal attitudes, including thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviours. Body image is a dynamic concept that keeps changing over time and at different phases of life. Body image perceptions are usually shaped by the society, the media, and popular culture. Workplace culture has also been found to be a prominent factor in this regard. newlineThe current study delves into the same by taking the case of aviation industry which is said to have higher physical appearance standards for its employees. The study takes into account the perceptions of 20 women working in the aviation industry from various departments and positions such as cabin crew, marketing and accounting, to investigate how their workplace contributes in developing positive or negative self-perceptions. Through a thematic analysis, it has been deduced that women in the industry are often objectified and employed in customer facing newlineroles. This puts immense pressure on women staff to adhere to industry s appearance newlinestandards. It takes a toll on women s physical and mental health as well as their career advancement in the industry. The study delves into the strategies that can mitigate the negative body image impacts. At the individual level, women in aviation need to better invest in personal grooming and overall fitness to internalize with established standards and improve their body newlineimage. It also requires a change in focus, from the outer self to the inner self. At the newlineorganizational level, it has been found that support systems are powerful interventions hence opportunities for peer support and mentoring should be created. A flexible work environment motivating employees to improve their self-image rather than coercing them to adhere to the same can foster positive body image among women in aviation.