| This phenomenological study used a qualitative semi-structured interview to explore how the obesity phenomenon was experienced and handled in the context of every day life among 7 Mexican women, 6 Mexican men, 7 Mexican American women and 6 Mexican American men. This study was suited to understand the meanings, interpretations and the lived experiences of 26 obese participants who were chosen through purposeful criteria sampling allowing access to their private spheres, which revealed a great deal about the problem of obesity. The researcher carefully assured the data collection and analyses of these data were carried out. A useful tool called Ask Sam Processor facilitated the process of data reduction because of its ability to handle any combination of structured and unstructured data. The perception of the body was found as an important theme in the study.;Four patterns emerged as influential in the lived experiences of the respondents, generating a better understanding of obesity as a social phenomenon. Each pattern had its own set of events that created the situations, issues and problems related to obesity. This cross-national study examined habits, lifestyles, traditions and familial eating patterns in regarding to obesity issues between Mexican and Mexican Americans. Similarities and differences were established. This study found that, with emigration to the United States, major changes occurred in the Mexican American's diet, eating patterns and life styles. Support of theoretical perspectives such as Family System Theory (ecological perspective, Coping Theory and Learning Theory) were useful to make conclusions and to analyze the results. Implications for the practice of social work, for policy makers, and for future research as well as reflections and recommendations are included. |
