Weight Stigma, Body Image and Health Perceptions among Practising P.E. Teachers in Northern Ireland.

Summary

Weight stigma - the negative attitudes and behaviours directed at people based on their body size - is an increasing concern in schools, particularly in physical education (PE) classes. This stigma can have lasting negative effects on students' physical and mental health, potentially discouraging them from staying physically active throughout their lives. While we know weight stigma is common in healthcare and workplace settings, we know surprisingly little about how it operates in PE classes, especially in Northern Ireland's schools.

This PhD project aims to understand how weight stigma presents itself in PE classes and develop practical solutions to create more inclusive environments where weight stigma is addressed. Unlike previous research that has mainly focused on teachers in training, this study will work with experienced PE teachers to understand their perspectives, challenges, and needs.

The research will involve several stages. First, the project will review the evidence about weight stigma from existing literature, then in-depth interviews and group discussions with PE teachers will be conducted to understand their experiences and beliefs about weight, health, and physical activity. Interviews will also be conducted with students, parents, and school administrators to get a complete picture of the challenges and opportunities for creating more inclusive PE environments. Using these insights and working directly with teachers and other school stakeholders the project aims to create a practical toolkit designed to help PE teachers foster weight-inclusive practices in their classes. This toolkit will be tested in real school settings to ensure it is both effective and feasible to implement.

The project's findings will help fill an important gap in our understanding of weight stigma in educational settings. This work is particularly timely given increasing concerns about body image issues among young people and the crucial role that positive PE experiences play in promoting lifelong physical activity.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.