"I see my body the way people see me": A qualitative study on the acceptability and cultural adaptation of the mind.body.voice curriculum for Latina youth.
Journal Article
Overview
abstract
Latina adolescents and emerging adults navigate conflicting appearance ideals, balancing the "Latina curvy ideal" with Eurocentric thinness standards that contribute to body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, and emotional distress. Few culturally tailored interventions have been developed or evaluated specifically for Latina youth, particularly in ways that directly center their lived experiences and adaptation priorities. The mind.body.voice (m.b.v.) curriculum is a near-peer-led program integrating cognitive dissonance, contemplative practices, and community action to counter harmful appearance ideals and foster body acceptance. To examine the acceptability and cultural resonance of this approach, we engaged 17 Latina adolescents and young adults (ages 13-22) in virtual focus groups and administered self-report measures of body image, discrimination, acculturation, and ethnic identity. Thematic analysis identified five key domains: 1) body image and identity are shaped by intersecting cultural and societal expectations; 2) appearance biases arise from family influences, cultural norms, media exposure, and internalized pressures; 3) practices such as self-acare, physical activity, mindfulness, and a sense of strength drawn from cultural and familial roots promote body appreciation; 4) empowerment develops through peer support, safe spaces, and shared voice; and 5) culturally congruent, linguistically flexible facilitators enhance engagement. Participants viewed m.b.v. as acceptable and culturally resonant and identified both surface- and deep-structure adaptation priorities to inform future refinement and evaluation.
