The aim of the study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of the two dimensional and three dimensional Silhouette Scales (2SS and 3SS) so as to determine which one is most suitable and meaningful for persons that are congenitally blind. This is a qualitative and exploratory study. The sample was composed of 20 adult congenitally blind subjects. Ten men and 10 women aged between 21 and 50 years of age from the Benjamin Constant Institute, in Rio de Janeiro and from the Association for the Blind of Juiz de Fora, MG, were interviewed. The tools for the collection of data were: 2SS, 3SS and semi-structured interview guideline. The strategy adopted for data construction was the Content Analysis of Bardin. Three large categories were formed: 1) Main information pathways about the body, subdivided into: touch; information about weight and height; information about the people they live with; cultural information; clothes size, and physical activity as a reference. 2) Two dimensional Silhouette Scale, subdivided into: Non recognition of the 2SS; difficulties; functions. 3) Three dimensional Silhouette Scale: subdivided into: recognition of the Scale; relationship with oneself or with others, ease and preferences of the 3SS. It was found that 90% of the participants did not recognize the 2SS while all of the participants recognized the 3SS. The 3SS is the more adequate and meaningful scale for the congenitally blind. Further studies aiming to assess the psychometric qualities of the 3SS are needed.
Body Image; Body; Visual Impairments
