A Post-Structural Examination of Eating Behaviours, Body Image, and Health in Gay Men Using Photovoice

Nutrition is one of the major lifestyle factors that can impact overall health, including physical, mental, and sexual health. The Nova Scotian government has identified gay men as a priority for improving resources and access to health services. Gay men often feel isolated from health care professions despite being challenged with many experiences that can increase their health risks. Homophobia, heterosexism, ideals of masculinity, and cultural pressures within the gay community to look attractive can all play a role in how these men view and maintain their health. To design effective nutritional programs for gay men, research is needed to explore their unique concerns, such as body dissatisfaction, body acceptance, confidentiality, privacy, stress, and a safe environment. The purpose of this study is to explore how identifying as a gay man influences eating behaviours, body image, and their health. Framed by post-structuralism and queer theories, this qualitative study will strive to break down and understand the role of gender and sexual identities in eating behaviors. The project will be completed in two phases. Within both phases, 10-15 participants who identify as gay will be recruited. Photovoice, a method that helps participants to express themselves, will be used in Phase 1. Participants will be asked to take photos of their daily life experiences with food and their body image. Photos and their meanings will be discussed in small groups to provide the data for this phase. Phase Two will involve face-to-face interviews to examine more closely how their relationship with food impacts their overall physical, mental, and sexual health. The results of this project will inform health care providers to better service these men and design tailored nutritional interventions for them.