Mirror, mirror on the screen: LGBTQ+ college student experience with body image during COVID-19

Abstract

This narrative study shares the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ college students with body image during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research has shown that viewing oneself on the computer screen and time spent viewing social media during COVID-19 has negatively impacted body image in many individuals. Most research on this topic has been completed with cisgender, heterosexual, white women. Expanding the literature to include research with marginalized and underrepresented populations is integral to fully understanding the impact COVID-19 has had on body image. This study interviewed LGBTQ+ college students at Montana State University who had been students at the institution during the spring 2020 and fall 2020 semesters at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research aimed to include the participant stories and offer space to the voices of the LGBTQ+ community on their experience with body image during COVID-19. The dissertation included interviews with six students who provided artifacts representing their experiences. Key findings were presented as four themes: 1. Mirror Image, 2. Time for Reflection, 3. Identity Development, and 4. Relationships, Supports, and Influences. These findings provided a window into the unique experiences of the LGBTQ+ participants and how they viewed body image during the pandemic. This dissertation shares the stories and the experiences to broaden the understanding of this topic within the LGBTQ+ community, expands the understanding of lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and offers insight into providing services and education in a way that fully considers diversity, equity, and inclusion.