Patterson, Michelle C.McDonough, Meghan H.Hewson, JenniferCulos-Reed, S. NicoleBennett, Erica2023-02-062023-02-062022-07-23Patterson, M., McDonough, M. H., Hewson, J., Culos-Reed, S. N., & Bennett, E. (2022). Social support and body image in group physical activity programs for older women, Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 44(5), 335-343. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.2021-0237http://hdl.handle.net/1880/115816Physical declines with aging may negatively impact women’s body image. Group physical activity can be a source of social support that may improve body image. We examined how social support experienced in group physical activity programs impact older women’s body image. Guided by interpretive description, 14 women aged 65 and older who participated in group physical activity classes were interviewed. While women experienced both positive and negative body image, body image was generally positively impacted by physical activity. Four themes described social support processes that affected body image in the physical activity context: fitting in and being inspired through identifying with others; what is discussed, and not discussed; providing comfort, understanding, and acceptance; and skilled and empathetic interactions with instructors. Understanding how social support in group physical activity can promote positive body image throughout aging can inform practical guidelines for facilitating and improving support in this context.Unless otherwise indicated, this material is protected by copyright and has been made available with authorization from the copyright owner. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.self-perceptionsolder adultsagingpositive body imagecopingthrivingjournal article10.1123/jsep.2021-0237