Influence of Age and Gender on Body Shaming Behaviour among Adolescents and Young Adults in Ilorin

Abstract

Body-shaming behaviours have become increasingly rampant among young people, particularly in communities where societal expectations and media influences shape perceptions of appearance. This study examined the influence of age and gender on bodyshaming behaviours among adolescents and young adults in Ilorin. A descriptive survey approach was employed, and information was obtained from 300 adolescents and young adults aged 13– 28 years using the body esteem scale questionnaires measuring experience in bodyshaming. Data analysis was conducted using quantitative method, specifically one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to examine age differences and an independent sample t-test to assess gender differences. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in body shaming behaviour across age groups, F(3, 287) = 4.70, p = <.05. Additionally, a significant gender difference was observed, with males reporting higher body shaming scores than females (289) =2.02, p<.05). These findings suggest that body shaming experiences vary across developmental stages and are influenced by gender