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Biopsychosocial Impact of Beauty Practices: A Risk Factor for Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination in Ghana |
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PP: 33-41 |
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doi:10.18576/ab/090302
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Author(s) |
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Dymphna Bakker-Edoh,
Johnson Kofi Kassah,
Valeria Makafui,
Shine Adzo Asimah,
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Abstract |
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| In this study, we investigate how beauty practices influence gender discrimination and violence, particularly within the framework of Sustainable Development Goals 5.1 and 5.2, and explore how beauty education can be leveraged to promote gender equality and reduce violence. The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research involves collecting data from existing resources; hence, it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in the researchers time, telephone charges, and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports, and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. A preliminary empirical review indicated that beauty practices often reinforced gender stereotypes and norms that perpetuated gender discrimination and violence. Frequent engagement in traditional beauty practices was linked to increased self-objectification among women, which correlated with higher instances of discrimination and violence. Media and cultural norms played a significant role in perpetuating harmful beauty standards, particularly in cultures where physical appearance was closely tied to a womans social value. Additionally, there was a critical need for more research on the long-term effects of beauty practices, their intersection with other social identities, and the impact of integrating gender equality content into beauty education curricula to promote gender equality and reduce violence. The Objectification Theory, Gender Role Theory, and Feminist Theory of Violence against Women may be used to anchor future studies on beauty and the perspective of gender discrimination and violence. In practice, it identified the need for incorporating gender equality and violence prevention content into beauty education curricula, suggesting that this could shift attitudes and behaviors towards more positive gender norms. In terms of policy, the study emphasized the importance of culturally tailored interventions and media responsibility in challenging harmful beauty standards, advocating for public health campaigns and educational initiatives that promote inclusive beauty ideals and reduce gender-based violence. |
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