Weight bias and stigma
Feb 29, 2024
Weight stigma refers to social stereotypes and misconceptions about people with obesity, while weight bias refers to negative attitudes toward and beliefs about others because of their weight.
Weight bias or weight-based discrimination occurs when individuals are treated differently or unfairly because of their weight or size. Internalised weight bias is holding negative beliefs about oneself due to weight or size.
Individuals with obesity may experience weight bias from educators, employers, health professionals, the media and even friends and family. We need to break down weight stigma. Education and understanding about the pathophysiology of weight and the understanding that it is a chronic health condition helps to reduce the shame and blame.
Obesity is a chronic health condition.
Obesity is not a lifestyle choice or a lack of willpower. Obesity is a complex condition with genetic, biological, environmental and societal roots.
It is difficult to reduce obesity once it is established. This is because the body defends against weight loss so even with successful weight loss, most people regain some or all of the weight loss over time.
So, weight regain is not a failure or weakness on the individual’s part. Most of our patients have experienced weight regain, it is not their fault. Weight loss is not a one size fits all, and it is definitely not just a matter of eating less and exercising more.
Your weight is not something you need to manage on your own – we are here to help.