Weight stigma mediates the association between BMI and self-reported health.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Weight stigma is pervasive in the United States. We tested the hypothesis that stigma may be a mechanism through which obesity negatively affects self-reported health. Two studies examined whether perceived weight-based discrimination and concerns over weight stigma mediated the association between BMI and self-reported psychological health (Study 1) and physical health (Study 2).

Method

In 2 online studies, adult community members completed measures of stigma-relevant mediators (perceived weight discrimination, weight stigma concerns) and provided their height and weight. In Study 1 (N = 171) participants also completed measures of psychological health (depression, self-esteem, quality of life), whereas participants in Study 2 (N = 194) also completed a measure of

SUBMITTER: Hunger JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4308542 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature