Cultural and societal influences on skin bleaching in Nigeria: An analysis of the ‘SKIN’ documentary

Mgr. Prisca Ejianya

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Skin bleaching is a global practice which involves the alteration of one’s skin color through the use of natural or chemical substances which can be harmful to the skin in both long and short term. Skin bleaching is a common phenomenon in Nigerian society and individuals engage in this practice for various reasons which ranges from cosmetic reasons to several other reasons which are rooted in the influence of historical, economic and socio-cultural factors. This study answers the following research questions; (i) how the documentary ‘SKIN’ portrays skin bleaching; (ii) how cultural and historical factors have encouraged skin bleaching in Nigeria; and (iii) how social and economic factors continue to influence skin bleaching. The general objective is to investigate the practice of skin bleaching in Nigeria by tracing its historical roots, and pointing out cultural beliefs, economic and social factors that continue to promote skin bleaching in Nigeria. Looking glass theory and critical race theory were employed in this study as theoretical frameworks to help explain the practice of skin bleaching. This study adopted a qualitative approach, making use of a primary source of material in form of a documentary on skin bleaching titled ‘SKIN’. The interviews from the documentary were analyzed using thematic analysis in order to examine the content and identify recurring themes related to beauty standards, societal attitudes, and cultural influences on skin bleaching. Erving Goffman’s Frame analysis was also used to help understand the underlying frames in forms of social and cultural factors that encourage skin bleaching in Nigeria.

Keywords

Skin bleaching, colorism, Skin color, Skin tone, Light skin, Dark skin

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 6. 5. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 29. 5. 2024
• Supervisor: prof. Bernadette Nadya Jaworsky, Ph.D.
• Reader: doc. Mgr. Eva Šlesingerová, Ph.D.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Social Studies

Master programme / field:
Sociology / Sociology