New research led by the University of Bristol has found that people who felt pressure to lose weight as teenagers from family or the media, females, individuals who are not heterosexual, and those experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage are most at risk of ‘internalised’ weight stigma. This type of stigma occurs when individuals apply negative stereotypes related to obesity to themselves, such as feeling less attractive, competent, or valuable because of their weight. This study, published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe, is the first to use a large UK sample to examine who is most susceptible to this form of stigma.
In England, around one in four people are living with obesity, which is highly stigmatised in society. Negative stereotypes and discrimination related to weight are widespread, and those affected by weight stigma are more likely to experience poor mental health, eating disorders, and delays in seeking medical treatment. Little is known, however, about which population groups are at greater risk of internalised weight stigma, as previous research has used small, nonrepresentative samples. This new study utilized data from Bristol’s Children of the 90s to explore differences in internalised weight stigma in over 4,000 individuals aged 31 based on factors such as sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and childhood and adolescent experiences.
The research revealed that feeling pressure from family to lose weight, experiencing weight-related teasing from family members, and feeling pressure from the media to lose weight as a teenager were all associated with higher levels of internalised weight stigma at age 31, independent of differences in body mass index (BMI). Being bullied in adolescence and adulthood was also independently linked to internalised weight stigma at age 31. The study found clear variations in internalised weight stigma among different population groups, with females, non-heterosexual individuals, people who spent more time as NEETs in their 20s, and those whose mothers had fewer educational qualifications being at greater risk.
Dr. Amanda Hughes, Research Fellow at the Bristol Medical School, highlighted the long-lasting impacts of family environment, bullying, and media pressure on how individuals value themselves based on their weight as adults. She emphasized the importance of addressing weight stigma and its effects by changing discussions about weight in the media, public spaces, and families, and by responding to bullying in schools and workplaces. The prevalence of pressure to lose weight, weight-related bullying, stigma, and discrimination in various cultures underscores the urgency of addressing these issues globally.
The researchers intend to delve into the psychological processes through which social factors influence internalised weight stigma in further detail. By understanding the mechanisms underlying this stigma, interventions and strategies can be developed to mitigate its impact and promote greater acceptance and support for individuals of all body types. It is crucial to create environments that foster positive body image, challenge stereotypes, and promote inclusivity to reduce the prevalence of weight stigma and its detrimental consequences on mental and physical health.
