Project Description
The Embodied Physical Activity Study is an exploratory study of undergraduate young adult students' experiences of embodiment in day-to-day life and during physical activity. Generally, embodiment is described as feeling comfort, self-expression, and contentment with your body, trusting and having pride in your body, respecting your body, and feeling a sense of competence, well-being, power, and self-efficacy through your body. The concept of embodiment builds upon previous research centered on body appreciation and positive body image. Embodiment provides a more robust conceptualization of how people can experience their bodies in an agentic manner. Moreover, embodiment is associated with psychological health.
Embodiment specifically experienced during physical activity is a relatively new area of research. The project will explore how people experience embodiment during physical activity, what factors influence embodied physical activity experiences, and how embodied physical activity may be related to physical activity (self-reported) and self-esteem.
Tasks and Responsibilites
The student will learn about the central theoretical framework used in the study, Developmental Theory of Embodiment (Piran, 2016) and will participate in qualitative thematic analysis. In addition to participating in thematic coding and analysis, the student will aid with the development of conference abstracts and dissemination of study results through conference presentations.
Desired Qualifications
Have completed 18 credits of college coursework.
Have an interest in psychosocial aspects of body image and physical activity.