Abstract
In the Philippines, societal beauty standards are shaped by colonial history and reinforced by media and familial expectations which have led many Filipinas to internalize unrealistic ideals about physical appearance. This internalization, contributes to negative body image and affects self-worth, emotional well-being, and interpersonal relationships. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of Filipinas with negative body image within the context of romantic relationships. The research aimed to understand how negative body image developed and how it influenced emotional well-being, communication, and partner dynamics. Using a transcendental phenomenological approach, the study gathered data from five participants who scored high on negative body image using the scale of Body Self-Image Questionnaire-Short Form (BSIQ-SF). These individuals were also interviewed with an 18-item semi-structured questions that focuses on the possible experiences of these Filipinas. Through thematic analysis, several recurring themes were identified. Environmental factors such as family criticism, social media exposure, past harassment, and comparisons to a partner’s former relationships emerged as significant contributors to body dissatisfaction. Another major theme involved the evolution of romantic relationships, which included the role of partner affirmations, emotional support, and communication. Participants reported that supportive partners often alleviated the negative effects of body insecurities, although miscommunication and emotional disconnects were occasionally present. In conclusion, the research highlighted the importance of empathetic romantic relationships, supportive communication, and awareness of environmental factors in shaping body image among Filipinas. The study offered insights into how cultural norms, interpersonal dynamics, and individual coping strategies intersect in the psychological experiences of women with negative body image. These findings contribute to the growing body of research on body image, with implications for mental health advocacy, relationship counseling, and culturally responsive interventions.
