Emma Rawlins
Prof Gill Valentine
September 2004 - September 2007
ESRC Studentship
Childhood obesity is currently causing much concern. Defined as “a condition where weight gain has got to the point that it poses a serious threat to health” (Parliamentary Postnote, 2003), recent Government figures state that 8.5% of 6 year olds and 15% of 15 year olds are classified as obese. There is a 70% chance that these obese adolescents will become overweight in adult life and develop certain associated health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis and even cancer. Concerns over the potential stress on an already overburdened health service have so far dictated the main focus of research on obesity. The role of local and national government schemes to tackle the obesity crisis are implemented with the help of local organisations and have focused on prevention but have largely ignored the everyday experiences and identities of those labelled ‘obese’. This research explores the narratives contributing to the construction of body image and identity amongst both obese and non-obese children in Leeds. Through the collection and analysis of evidence generated by both extensive diary and intensive qualitative methodologies, including photography, the study investigates the everyday identities and practices of obese and non obese children in the context of school, peer-group networks, and the home.