The Relationship Between the Jewish Ritual of Mikveh and the Body Image

M.S. Thesis · Judith Sandra Guedalia · November 1977

A Thesis Presented to the Faculty of Springfield College — In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Science.

Preface (her words)

In a previous study conducted by the present writer on self concept, it was found that Orthodox Jewish women showed no significant relationship in the level of self concept from those Jewish women who were not as observant of the traditional Jewish rituals. It was noted, however, that a tendency existed among those in the Orthodox group to have a higher degree of awareness in the area of body image. Implied in this observation was that the observance of the Jewish Ritual of Mikveh, a ritual in which the physical awareness of body is important, might have a positive correlation with heightened awareness of body image. The present study is expected to show that a relationship exists between the observance of the Jewish Ritual of Mikveh and body image.

— J. S. G., November 1977

Acknowledgements (her words)

This small contribution to its field could not have been completed without the special help and concern of the following parties:

My committee, whose guidance and counsel were invaluable.

My parents, for without whose doubt in my abilities I might never have attempted this project.

My typist, Mrs. Laurene Perry, for her tireless assistance.

Last, but far from least, my husband, Harris, and children: Allison, Jacob, David, and Joshua, whose love, understanding, and above all, patience continue to sustain me.

Thank you all. — J. S. G., November 1977

Sections (twelve in all · 9,664 words)

1. The Relationship Between the Jewish Ritual of Mikveh and the Body Image (title page)
2. Acknowledgements
3. Preface
4. Chapter 1: Introduction
5. Chapter 2: Review of Literature
6. Chapter 3: Procedures
7. Chapter 4: Analysis of Data
8. Chapter 5: Summary and Conclusions
9. Appendix A, B, C, and References