The primary aim of the research attempted to investigate whether ethnic differences in self-image existed amongst White and African females. It further investigated whether specific factors such as family, peer relations and psychosocial factors (specifically perceptions regarding the media) have had a positive or negative influence on weight. Additionally it explored whether black females may still perceive a fuller figure as being more acceptable or whether changes have occurred within past and/or present ideologies. The study used both qualitative and quantitative analysis. In order to establish whether ethnicity was significantly different from BMI, BSQ, SATAQ-3, t-tests (non-parametric one-way ANOVA comparisons) were performed. Ethnicity was not significantly different in relation to the dependent variables BSQ; overall SATAQ-3 scores and its dimensions; and affirmation, belonging and commitment of the MEIM. However significant differences were found between BMI, the overall MEIM and its subscale ethnic identity. Low and high scores of the MEIM revealed no differences across all measurement instruments used within the study, demonstrating no effect upon BSQ or the SATAQ-3 and its subscales. However there was a significant difference found between ethnic groups with regard to BMI. Fisher’s –z was used to conduct comparisons between the correlations established using Pearson’s Rank Coefficient Correlations. The results indicated that significant relationships did exist between the BSQ, specific subscales of the SATAQ-3, and BMI. Results obtained from Fisher’s-z revealed significant differences on the BSQ and SATAQ-3 (including its subscales) correlations. Multiple Regression was conducted to establish whether BMI, MEIM and SATAQ-3 have had an impact upon the outcome of BSQ. The comparisons revealed that BMI and sociocultural factors may have an impact upon the perceptions of body shape and size. Major themes identified within the qualitative analysis were culture, inherited concepts, media, family, friends and parental (mother) influences amongst others. The results revealed that White females may experience greater body dissatisfaction. African females had stated that their body concept is influenced by ethnicity, while White females communicated media and stereotyped images of white females as being the source of pressure to loose weight.