Thick thrills: because life's too short for skinny taste

• Main Author: Mehta Shivani
• Other Authors: Desmond Pang Hee Wee
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Arts and Humanities; Visual communication; Design; Branding; Illustration; Body inclusivity; Satire; Empathy
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/177477
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This paper examines the issue of body inclusivity in contemporary society, with a specific focus on the challenges encountered by individuals with smaller body types, particularly women identified as “smaller bodied.' For this study, “smaller bodied woman” refers to individuals whose body measurements fall below the average standards within their respective societies. By employing qualitative methods, including personal observations and interviews with petite women aged 18 to 30, this research aims to foster understanding and empathy towards this demographic. The study delves into various aspects of the petite experience and the psychological impact of backhanded compliments and derogatory remarks, which often exacerbate feelings of insecurity. Through the exploration of real-life narratives and experiences, this paper seeks to underscore the pervasive lack of awareness and inclusivity towards individuals with smaller body types. Despite recent shifts in societal attitudes towards body diversity, the prevailing discourse often fails to encompass the full spectrum of body types, thereby perpetuating exclusionary norms. This paper seeks to initiate dialogue surrounding the imperative of genuine inclusivity and to critically evaluate the extent of progress achieved in addressing entrenched biases perpetuated by media and cultural representations over time.