Breast Support and Physical Activity for Immigrant Black Girls: Parental Experiences

Sport participation rates are reported to decline during adolescence, specifically among girls and this is even more problematic for Canadian immigrant children. Large breast size and excessive breast movement are frequently associated with barriers to physical activity for them. To address these barriers, health promotion strategies need to employ culturally competent approaches. A focus group study conducted by our partner Bra Girl will analyze the knowledge and perceptions of Alberta’s immigrant Black mothers regarding breast supports for their adolescent daughters related to the physical activity. Research for these in Alberta has not been conducted. We will study the lack of bra knowledge among parents of immigrant Black girls to develop an educational booklet to promote the use of bras for their children. A questionnaire will be provided to understand their knowledge of bra support. The research team will circulate an ethically approved recruitment poster on social media and community boards. In-person information sessions will be organized with community organizations in the immigrant Black communities in Alberta. Through the research results, BraGirl will develop a new education campaign for adolescent girls and mothers about breast support knowledge, and how to increase physical activity to the recommended WHO levels.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bunmi Obateru

Student:

Partner:

TheBraGirl

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Retail trade

University:

Bow Valley College

Program: