Weight bias is a major issue in our society. This type of stigma has negative effects on the victims and we need to eradicate it. In order to do that, we need to be able to understand what weight bias is and why this type of discrimination is unacceptable.
What is Weight Bias?
Weight bias is negative attitudes, beliefs, judgments, stereotypes, and discriminatory acts aimed at individuals simply because of their weight. It can be overt or subtle and occur in any setting, including employment, healthcare, education, mass media and relationships with family and friends. It also takes many forms – verbal, written, media, online and more. Weight bias is dehumanizing and damaging: it can cause adverse physical and psychological health outcomes and promotes a social norm that marginalizes people. Weight bias exists amongst all people and can cause permanent physical and mental damage.
If you have been a victim of obesity stigma, you are not alone.
As a Coalition, the OAC strives to reduce the negative stigma and weight bias associated with the disease of obesity that those affected face on a daily basis. We encourage you to get involved, get educated and do something to make a difference in reducing weight bias and stigma. This section will help you better understand weight stigma and how to combat it: