The Case for Hair Health in Health Education: Exploring Hair and Physical Activity Among Urban African American Girls

ABSTRACT

Background: African American adolescent girls have the highest prevalence of overweight and obesity and the lowest levels of physical activity when compared to their peers, putting them at risk for a future of chronic diseases. Data from several studies have identified hair management as a perceived barrier to physical activity among African American women. However, the literature is deficient in identifying this barrier among girls. Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the relationship between cultural hair practices and physical activity in physical education (PE) class among urban African American girls. Methods: Fifty African American females, 14 to19 years old, were administered questions relating to (PE) physical activity and cultural hair practices. Results: Including hair health in Health Education to teach participants how to maintain hairstyles during in-school physical activity could ameliorate challenges to being physically active in physical education class due to hair practices. Discussion: This study provides important insights for culturally tailoring Health Education interventions in order to promote in-school physical activity. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health Education aimed at this population should include hair health as a facilitator to address challenges to physical activity in hopes of reducing obesity.

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Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes

1. Natural hair refers to hair that is free of chemicals and toxic ingredients and in its natural state as it grows out of the scalp.

2. Edges, also known as baby hairs, is a term commonly used by black women and girls referring to the small hairs grown at the temple or forehead. Ideally, edges are worn straight, combed against the head or forehead using optional hair products, in a swirly style known as laid.

3. Good is a slang term used in the urban vernacular meaning ideal or reaching the standard of high or ideal status.

4. A bun is a hairstyle commonly worn by black and Hispanic girls. It consists of a ponytail placed on the top of the head, with the ends of the ponytail twisted around and pinned underneath the ponytail, forming what resembles a round hamburger bun. The hair in the bun is sometimes secured by pins.

5. Wrapping is a term referring to combing the hair in a circular fashion and securing the ends of the hair with bobby pins. Wrapping and doobies are sometimes used interchangeably.

6. Down is a term used by black and Hispanic girls that refers to leaving one’s hair out and not in any specific style.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Rutgers School of Nursing, Center for Urban Youth and Families.