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RESULTS
Eight key themes were identified; these incorporated various inter-related sub-themes.
1. Definitions
A number of sub themes were associated with how disfigurement and beauty are described.
There was also evidence of a misinformed association of visible difference with mental and / or
physical disability.
“you always make the assumption that they are not as capable as normal people”
(Bengali young female)
1a. Disfigurement
Definitions ranged from ‘ugly’ to any abnormality or unevenness in the colour, shape or features
of the face and included scarring and amputation. There was some acknowledgement that
these differences could be either congenital or acquired.
1b. Beauty Ideals
Fair, clear skin, symmetrical and proportioned features, a tall and slim physique and long hair
were associated with female beauty. Male participants valued facial hair. Although the emphasis
was on physical facial aspects, there was some acknowledgement that clothes can be
important, and that beauty can come from within and is a subjective assessment.
“In our culture beauty is depends on how beautiful someone’s face is” (Bengali
older male)
1c. First Impressions
Physical appearance (focusing on the face, body posture and function) and dress are the first
things noticed when meeting strangers.
1d. Disfigurement associated with intellectual and physical disability or a ‘poor’
character
Participants frequently felt that disfigurement or visible differences were associated with or
indicative of mental and/or physical disability, or indicated ‘poor’ character: the latter particularly
so if the visible differences were acquired during a fight or accident.
“if their appearance is not normal you can surmise that they are not well”’ (Sikh
older male)
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