Within PSYCHO, Adjo Fâa-Ny Céline Notokpe explored the image of the body among overweight adolescents in Togo.
Adjo Fâa-Ny Céline Notokpe, chercheur·e au sein de PSYCHO (Université Marie et Louis Pasteur).
Thèse soutenue en 2024 à l'école doctorale École doctorale Sociétés, Espaces, Pratiques, Temps (Dijon ; Besançon ; 2017-....).
Référencée dans le réseau ABES/STAR, cette thèse répond aux critères de rigueur de l'enseignement supérieur français.
The image of the body is a complex subject, particularly among overweight adolescents. In Togo, this issue takes on a unique dimension, influenced by cultural perceptions that differ from those of Western societies. The thesis of Adjo Fâa-Ny Céline Notokpe highlights these dynamics, revealing that overweight is not simply a pathology, but a social and cultural phenomenon that deserves particular attention. Indeed, in Togo, being overweight is often associated with notions of wealth and well-being, which makes the situation even more delicate to address.
The study's results show that 46.6% of Togolese families invest in their family dynamics. This underscores the importance of interpersonal relationships in managing overweight. In a context where overweight is often stigmatized, it is essential to understand how families perceive and live this reality. For example, family meals are often moments of sharing and conviviality, where food plays a central role. This dynamic can reinforce eating behaviors that contribute to overweight, but it can also be a source of emotional support for the affected adolescents.
The research also revealed that 21.4% of families identify a central room in their home as a place of family identity, which reflects the importance of family interactions in shaping the image of the body. This place, often the dining room or living room, becomes a space where emotional bonds are woven, but also social norms regarding food and physical appearance. Adolescents, in search of identity, can thus be influenced by the family and cultural expectations that surround them.
It is crucial to deconstruct the stereotypes associated with overweight. In many cultures, being overweight can be perceived as a sign of prosperity or well-being, which contrasts with Western perceptions that often regard it as a health problem. In Togo, a person who is overweight may be seen as having the means to eat well, which can create internal conflicts for adolescents struggling with their body image. This thesis invites a rethinking of public health approaches, integrating cultural and family specificities into interventions.
The study's recommendations are clear: it is necessary to promote awareness of the psychosocial implications of overweight in public health policies in Togo. Decision-makers should encourage integrative therapeutic approaches that take into account family and cultural dynamics. This could improve the care of overweight adolescents and foster a better understanding of the issues related to this problem. For example, educational programs that involve families in promoting balanced diets and physical activities could be beneficial.
It is also essential to involve the adolescents themselves in these discussions. By giving them a voice, we can better understand their concerns and aspirations, which can lead to more tailored solutions. Adolescents should be encouraged to share their experiences and express how they perceive their bodies and health.
In summary, the thesis of Adjo Fâa-Ny Céline Notokpe paves the way for a deeper reflection on the image of the body and overweight in Togo. It emphasizes the importance of a multidimensional approach that takes into account cultural and family specificities, in order to better support adolescents in their health journey. By integrating these elements into public health policies, it is possible to create a more favorable environment for adolescent health, while respecting and valuing their cultural identity.
Données clés
- 46,6% : des familles togolaises investissent dans leur dynamique familiale, soulignant l'importance des relations interpersonnelles.
- 21,4% : des familles identifient une pièce centrale comme lieu d'identité familiale, révélant des aspects significatifs de leur mode de vie.
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Sources et accès
Adjo Fâa-Ny Céline Notokpe. L'image du corps chez l'adolescent en surpoids et sa famille au Togo. Psychologie. Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 2024. Français. ⟨NNT : 2024UBFCC009⟩. ⟨tel-04810361⟩