Percepção da imagem corporal e características biopsicossociais em adolescentes escolares

Abstract

Adolescence is the transition period with its own specific characteristics. In this phase, several biopsychosocial characteristics make the adolescent vulnerable and influential, especially in relation to body image perception and risk behaviors. This study aims to understand the perception of adolescents about their body image in association with biopsychosocial characteristics. A descriptive study with a qualitative approach to the results of an educational activity, carried out in the second half of 2017, in a full-time school in Fortaleza-CE, with female adolescents, aged between 13 and 17 years. The data collection was done through a questionnaire and implementation of educational activity on body image, in which this occurred through the technique "Mirror" and talk wheel. The analysis of the data was described through the synthesis of content analysis and explanatory analysis of Mayring content of the textual material. The study was approved under Supported Opinion no.2,291,545. The biopsychosocial characteristics perceived by the adolescents were: physical changes common to growth and development, such as breast enlargement and hip enlargement, and weight and height variation, in which the idea of being tall and lean is configured as a body synonym Perfect; in relation to the behavior, the girls affirmed to be more daring, ignorant and stressed; in the relationship with the parents, most adolescents mentioned frequent conflicts and discussions; the girls reported increased feelings, such as sadness, anger and hatred, in addition to being classified as lazy; sexuality was cited as something common and cause for great curiosity; some girls became aware of the need to use condoms in sexual relationships. The adolescents expressed their body image and biopsychosocial characteristics through distinct aspects: physical appearance; behavioral characteristics; self-esteem and beauty; perception of maturity. Therefore, it is concluded with the study that the perception of the body image of the adolescents in association with the biopsychosocial characteristics was understood and expressed through four aspects, which led them to experience new life contexts, changes in family relationships and in the cycle of friendships. It is considered fundamental that there is greater availability of spaces so that they can expose their feelings and that nurses should prioritize integral care in adolescent health.