32nd Annual Student Research Conference
Fitspiration and social media: A qualitative exploration into perspectives and online experiences of college women
Avery E. Chancellor* and Madeline L. Hensley
Dr. Kristen E. Welker, Faculty Mentor
Social media use in a college student population is near ubiquitous. A common trend on social media is that of “fitspiration” (a play on the words “fitness” and “inspiration”). Fitspiration pages intend to spread a motivational message and encourage people to reach their fitness aspirations. Previous research has shown these pages to be effective at providing motivation for exercise in the short term, but also to be associated body dissatisfaction and lower self-esteem. The purpose of this study is to better understand female perceptions of online fitspiration pages.
This study will utilize a qualitative approach and participants will take part in a focus group. There will be one focus group for women majoring in Health Science, and a second non-Health Science majors. Each focus group will be transcribed and coded for themes. Results will be presented through representative quotes and a concept map. A discussion of results will be included.
Keywords: Fitspiration, Social Media, Qualitative
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 4-5
Location: SUB GEO
Time: 3:00