Body Image in Healthcare Assistants: A Thematic Analysis

There has been extensive research carried on body image experiences in people that receive professional care, but not on the care providers themselves. This exploratory study explored how healthcare assistants feel about their bodies. Semi-structured interviews with seven people working in the care industry were carried out, and interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three key themes were highlighted: Body Appreciation, Body Image at Work and Looking into the Future. Working as a healthcare assistant had implications on a person’s body image, both positive and negative. The study found that working in the care sector promotes individuals to have a higher level of body appreciation, which is positively related to body image. Findings demonstrate that working in care promotes individuals to reflect on their future selves in terms of their body and encourages them to be healthier. Implications of the research and directions for further research are discussed.