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Morse JL, Wooldridge JS, Herbert MS, Tynan M, Dochat C, Afari N. Associations Among Stress, Internalized Weight Stigma, Emotional Eating, and Body Composition in Active-Duty Service Members Enrolling in a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Weight Management Program. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:145-150. [PMID: 36729285 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a critical public health concern with particular relevance to US military personnel. Stress and internalized weight stigma ("stigma") may contribute to and maintain obesogenic processes and behaviors, including emotional eating. In this secondary cross-sectional analysis, we examined (1) associations among stress and stigma with emotional eating and body fat percentage (BF%), (2) whether stress explains the association between stigma and emotional eating, and (3) whether emotional eating explains associations between stress and stigma with BF%. METHOD Active-duty military service members (N = 178) completed BF% assessment and questionnaires assessing stress, stigma, and emotional eating. RESULTS Structural equation modeling path analyses showed that stress and stigma were both significantly associated with emotional eating (b = 0.35, p < 0.001 and b = 0.23, p < 0.001, respectively) and with BF% (b = 0.38, p < 0.001 and b = 0.29, p < 0.001, respectively) such that individuals who reported higher stress and stigma tended to report more emotional eating and had higher BF%. Stress partially explained the association between internalized weight stigma and emotional eating, and emotional eating partially explained the relationship between stress and BF% but did not significantly mediate the association between stigma and BF%. CONCLUSION Greater stress and internalized weight stigma were associated with more emotional eating and higher BF%; however, emotional eating only partially explained the association between stress and BF%. Results highlight the importance of interventions targeting stress management skills, but additional research is needed to identify mechanisms that explain the association between stigma and BF%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Morse
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jennalee S Wooldridge
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Matthew S Herbert
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mara Tynan
- San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, 9500 Gilman Drive, 0737, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Cara Dochat
- San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, 9500 Gilman Drive, 0737, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Niloofar Afari
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), San Diego, CA, USA.
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Leget DL, LaCaille LJ, Pearl RL. Comparing measurement of internalized weight stigma and body dissatisfaction. Body Image 2023; 47:101622. [PMID: 37672860 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Respective conceptualizations of internalized weight stigma and body dissatisfaction are distinct; however, strong relationships between measures of these two constructs prompts consideration about if these are truly unique constructs or whether current measurement tools are not adequately capturing their uniqueness. In this cross-sectional study, 480 U.S. women (78.8% white; MBMI = 25.9) ages 18-40 years, recruited from Amazon's MechanicalTurk and a mid-sized university, completed an online survey with the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M), a modified Body Parts Satisfaction Scale (BPSS), and other validated measures of body image, eating behavior, and mental health. Exploratory factor analysis of the WBIS-M and the BPSS supported a two-factor solution, although two items from the WBIS-M loaded with BPSS items. After removing these items, the 9-item version of the WBIS-M demonstrated stronger relationships with dysfunctional eating and mental health symptoms than did the BPSS (ꞵ range = 0.32-0.62 vs. 0.01-0.18, respectively). Findings from this study provide evidence to support the validity of WBIS-M and BPSS measuring unique constructs, suggesting that internalized weight stigma can be differentiated from body dissatisfaction. This study also highlights the need for further research that examines current measurement tools for internalized weight stigma and body dissatisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dakota L Leget
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota Duluth, 320 BohH 1207 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, 1225 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Lara J LaCaille
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota Duluth, 320 BohH 1207 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
| | - Rebecca L Pearl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, 1225 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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3
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Lin YC, Lin CY, Saffari M, Tsai MC, Chang YH, Strong C, Chen JK, Hsieh YP, Yang YN, Latner JD. Weight stigma is associated with body mass index among college students in Taiwan: the mediated role of internalized weight stigma. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:365. [PMID: 37915074 PMCID: PMC10621093 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01414-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weight stigma is an issue often studied in Western countries; however, such information is scarce in Asian studies. METHODS This study aimed to examine the role of internalized weight stigma as a mediator in the relationship between perceived weight stigma and changes in body mass index (BMI). The data were collected through a longitudinal online survey with two phases (n = 974; Phase 1: August and September 2021; Phase 2: November and December 2021). The Perceived Weight Stigma Scale (PWSS), Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ), and Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale - 21 (DASS-21) were administered to assess perceived weight stigma, internalized weight stigma, and psychological distress. Hierarchical regressions were used to examine the proposed model, and Hayes' Process Macro was used to test a mediation model. RESULTS The changes in perceived weight stigma and internalized weight stigma were significantly and positively associated with changes in BMI. There were significant and positive associations between perceived weight stigma, internalized weight stigma and psychological distress over time. Change in internalized weight stigma was found to be a significant mediator in the association of change in perceived weight stigma with change in BMI for the entire sample (unstandardized coefficient = 0.04; 95% CI = 0.02, 0.06), female subgroup (unstandardized coefficient = 0.05; 95% CI = 0.02, 0.08), and male subgroup (unstandardized coefficient = 0.03; 95% CI = 0.01, 0.06). Change in perceived weight stigma also had significant effects on change in BMI for the entire sample and the female subgroup, but not for the male subgroup. CONCLUSION Because perceived weight stigma may significantly impact changes in BMI through internalized weight stigma, treatment strategies to ameliorate self-stigma may enhance the results of weight-reduction programs. Such treatment strategies should be considered for inclusion in weight-loss interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ching Lin
- Department of Early Childhood and Family Education, National Taipei University of Education, Taipei, 106320, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
- University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran.
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Mohsen Saffari
- Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Health Education Department, Faculty of Health, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meng-Che Tsai
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Humanities and Social Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Hsuan Chang
- Institute of Gerontology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ji-Kang Chen
- Department of Social Work, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Ping Hsieh
- Department of Social Work, College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Yung-Ning Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, E-DA Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Janet D Latner
- Department of Psychology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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4
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Keast R, Withnell S, Bodell LP. Longitudinal associations between weight stigma and disordered eating across the weight spectrum. Eat Behav 2023; 50:101788. [PMID: 37572490 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Weight stigma reflects discrimination or stereotyping based on weight, and this construct is associated with body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and eating pathology. Recent research suggests that internalizing weight stigma (i.e., endorsing negative stereotypes about one's weight) mediates associations between experienced weight stigma and disordered eating. However, much of this research has been cross-sectional and limited data exist on associations between weight stigma constructs and eating pathology across the weight spectrum. The current study explored whether internalized weight stigma differentially mediates the relationship between experiencing weight stigma and disordered eating symptoms over time in higher-weight versus non-higher-weight individuals. Undergraduate students (N = 661, 80 % Female, 28.5 % higher weight) completed surveys at three time points over six months. Multigroup path analyses tested whether the effects of experienced weight stigma and internalized weight stigma on binge eating, food restriction, and body dissatisfaction differed between the higher-weight and non-higher-weight groups. All models showed improved fit when path estimates were allowed to vary between groups. Mediation analyses indicated a significant indirect effect of experienced weight stigma on binge eating via internalized weight stigma among the higher-weight group but not the non-higher-weight group. Only internalized weight stigma was directly associated with body dissatisfaction across weight status. A direct effect of experienced weight stigma on restriction was found in the non-higher-weight group. Findings suggest that, in general, weight stigma negatively affects body image and eating behavior, although specific effects may vary depending on one's weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley Keast
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Samantha Withnell
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lindsay P Bodell
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
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Groshon LC, Pearl RL. Longitudinal associations of binge eating with internalized weight stigma and eating self-efficacy. Eat Behav 2023; 50:101785. [PMID: 37515998 PMCID: PMC10839945 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Internalized weight stigma (IWS) is linked to binge eating disorder (BED) symptoms and reduced self-efficacy, yet it unknown how changes in these factors may interrelate. The current study examined cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of BED with IWS and eating self-efficacy among treatment-seeking adults with high body weight. Disinhibited eating was explored as a mediator. METHODS Seventy-one adults with high weight and elevated IWS were included in this secondary analysis of a clinical trial that provided 26 weeks of behavioral weight loss (BWL) treatment with (versus without) an additional IWS intervention. Participants underwent a BED diagnostic interview at screening and completed validated measures of binge eating, IWS (including weight bias internalization, self-devaluation, and stereotype endorsement), eating self-efficacy, and disinhibited eating at baseline and week-26. Cross-sectional mediation models tested associations of BED with IWS and eating self-efficacy, explained by disinhibited eating. Linear and logistic regression models, controlling for treatment condition, tested if baseline BED predicted changes in IWS, self-efficacy, and disinhibited eating, and if decreased binge episodes were associated with improved outcomes. RESULTS At baseline, disinhibited eating mediated the relationship between BED and weight self-devaluation (95 % CI = 0.66,3.58), stereotype endorsement (CI = 0.15,0.56), and eating self-efficacy (CI:-14.40,-4.29). Baseline BED did not predict changes in outcomes. Participants with decreased binge episodes reported greater improvements in weight bias internalization (p = 0.04) and eating self-efficacy (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study provides novel evidence of longitudinal associations between binge eating, IWS, and eating self-efficacy. IWS warrants further consideration as a treatment target and outcome in studies of BWL and BED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie C Groshon
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Rebecca L Pearl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, United States of America
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6
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Pearl RL, Wadden TA, Groshon LC, Fitterman-Harris HF, Bach C, LaFata EM. Refining the conceptualization and assessment of internalized weight stigma: A mixed methods approach. Body Image 2023; 44:93-102. [PMID: 36549092 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Internalized weight stigma has gained increasing attention in empirical studies, though questions remain about the adequacy of existing measures. The current study utilized a mixed methods approach, including a novel semi-structured interview, to revisit the conceptualization of internalized weight stigma and explore in more depth the stereotypes and impacts of weight reported by individuals with high scores on the widely-used Weight Bias Internalization Scale. All participants were interviewed as part of the screening procedures for two clinical trials (Study 1 n = 84, mean age=47.8 years, 83.3% women, 67.9% Black, mean BMI=39.2 kg/m2; Study 2 n = 129, mean age=50.0 years, 88.4% women, 65.1% white, mean BMI=37.8 kg/m2). The most common weight stereotypes identified were being lazy, lacking willpower or self-control, and having poor eating habits. Up to 66% of participants reported that they did not endorse negative weight stereotypes or apply them to themselves. The most highly identified impacts of weight were on self-image (>70%) and emotions (68-83%), followed by social (37-62%) and health concerns (20-25%). Approximately 60% of participants indicated that weight affected their self-directed thoughts and feelings "very much" to "extremely." Findings have implications for understanding and assessing internalized weight stigma in research and in clinical settings where interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Pearl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100165, Gainesville, FL 32610-0165, USA; Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Thomas A Wadden
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Laurie C Groshon
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100165, Gainesville, FL 32610-0165, USA
| | - Hannah F Fitterman-Harris
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, 2301 S. 3rd St., Life Sciences, Room 317, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Caroline Bach
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Erica M LaFata
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Gastón-Panthaki A, Serrano A, Virani N, Sylvestre J, Crisafulli BF, Becker CB. Food insecurity, weight-based discrimination, weight self-stigma, and mental health in post-bariatric surgery patients. Body Image 2023; 45:46-53. [PMID: 36773445 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The United States Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity (FI) as reduced quality and variety of diet or overall reduced food intake. To date, limited research has investigated the relationship between FI, weight stigma, and bariatric surgery. The existing literature suggests that FI in bariatric surgery patients is significantly associated with being a person of color, depression, receiving Medicare or Medicaid, and higher eating disorder (ED) pathology. Research also suggests that weight stigma in bariatric surgery patients is associated with worsened weight loss outcomes. No research to our knowledge has investigated FI, internalized weight stigma, weight-based discrimination, and history of bariatric surgery in one sample. Bariatric surgery patients in this study (N = 266) reported elevated rates of FI relative to the general population, via an online questionnaire. Those with FI also reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, ED pathology, internalized weight stigma, and experiences of weight-based discrimination compared to those who were food secure. Given these findings, bariatric surgical centers should evaluate all potential patients for FI before surgery and, at the bare minimum, provide additional support before and post-surgery. The ethics of conducting bariatric surgery in those with FI who lack significant medical comorbidity also must be considered.
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8
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Shonrock AT, Miller JC, Byrd R, Sall KE, Jansen E, Carraway M, Campbell L, Carels RA. Experienced weight stigma, internalized weight bias, and maladaptive eating patterns among heterosexual and sexual minority individuals. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:3487-3497. [PMID: 36223058 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01486-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The current study examined experienced weight stigma (EWS), internalized weight bias (IWB), and maladaptive eating patterns (ME) among sexual minority (SM) and heterosexual individuals. METHODS The sample consisted of cisgender heterosexual and SM men and women. Participants were drawn from introductory psychology classes and a variety of supplemental recruitment methods (Facebook, Instagram, MTURK, etc.). RESULTS SM individuals reported higher levels of EWS, IWB, and maladaptive eating patterns than heterosexual individuals. Heterosexual men reported the lowest levels of EWS, IWB, and ME compared to all other groups. Additionally, there was a significant association between greater EWS and IWB and greater ME. Gender identity and sexual orientation impacted the strength of the relationship between IWB and ME and, to a lesser extent, EWS and ME. CONCLUSION This investigation contributes to knowledge of the impact of gender identity and sexual orientation on EWS and IWB, and demonstrates that IWB and EWS are significant concerns for the SM community, especially in relation to ME. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, cross-sectional study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Caroline Miller
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Rhonda Byrd
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Kayla E Sall
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Emily Jansen
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Marissa Carraway
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Lisa Campbell
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Robert A Carels
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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9
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Rossi AA, Manzoni GM, Pietrabissa G, Di Pauli D, Mannarini S, Castelnuovo G. Weight stigma in patients with overweight and obesity: validation of the Italian Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ). Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:2459-2472. [PMID: 35290623 PMCID: PMC9556395 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the factorial structure of the Italian Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ) (Study1); and to test structural validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and measurement invariance of the questionnaire across gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), age and occurrence of previous hospitalization for obesity (Study2). METHODS At admission into a hospital-based program for weight reduction and rehabilitation, 150 inpatients with overweight/obesity (68% females) completed the WSSQ (Study1). In Study2, in addition to the WSSQ, 446 inpatients (61.9% females) completed the Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS), the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). A subsample of 40 patients also re-completed the WSSQ at discharge from the hospital. RESULTS The Italian WSSQ showed good overlap with the original factorial structure (Study1) and results were confirmed in Study2. Test-retest reliability and convergent validity showed adequate values. Measurement invariance revealed that WSSQ was perfectly invariant across both BMI and the occurrence of previous hospitalizations for obesity. In both studies, the internal consistency of the questionnaire was deemed acceptable. CONCLUSIONS The Italian WSSQ is a valid, reliable, and invariant tool for the assessment of weight-related self-stigma among patients with overweight/obesity. Future studies should assess its longitudinal invariance as well as its responsiveness to weight reduction treatments. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V, descriptive study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Alberto Rossi
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, Section of Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy. .,Interdepartmental Center for Family Research, Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, Section of Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Gian Mauro Manzoni
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Ospedale San Giuseppe, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Verbania, Italy.,Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
| | - Giada Pietrabissa
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Ospedale San Giuseppe, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Verbania, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Mannarini
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, Section of Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Interdepartmental Center for Family Research, Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education, and Applied Psychology, Section of Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Ospedale San Giuseppe, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Verbania, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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10
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Many women internalize negative attitudes regarding body shape and size because of the societal standards for women's ideal body shapes and sizes. Internalized weight stigma is related to poorer physical and psychological health. A growing body of research has documented the links between other forms of internalized stigma (e.g., HIV-stigma) and poor sleep quality; however, little research examines the links between internalized weight stigma and sleep or the mechanisms that explain this relationship. Internalized weight stigma may be associated with poor sleep through increases in psychological distress. This study hypothesized that the links between internalized weight stigma and sleep would be mediated by higher levels of depression and anxiety. METHODS About 257 women were recruited via social media, word of mouth, and an undergraduate participant pool. Participants completed an online survey assessing various aspects of weight stigma and health through self-report questionnaires. Most women were non-Hispanic White (86.8%) and had a mean age of 31.40. RESULTS The indirect effects of internalized weight stigma on poorer global sleep quality and daily disturbances through depression and anxiety were significant. In contrast, depressive symptoms but not anxiety explained the links between internalized weight stigma and perceived sleep quality and neither depressive symptoms nor anxiety explained the link between internalized weight stigma and sleep efficiency. CONCLUSIONS Internalized weight stigma is linked to poorer sleep quality, and these links may be explained by psychological well-being. Understanding the mechanisms by which internalized weight stigma is associated with sleep quality can inform the psychological interventions employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Craven
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Miami University, Hamilton, OH, 45011, USA.
| | - Erin M Fekete
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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11
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Braun TD, Unick JL, Abrantes AM, Dalrymple K, Conboy LA, Schifano E, Park CL, Lazar S. Intuitive eating buffers the link between internalized weight stigma and body mass index in stressed adults. Appetite 2022; 169:105810. [PMID: 34813916 PMCID: PMC9434977 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Internalized weight stigma (IWS) is independently associated with less intuitive eating (i.e., eating based on endogenous hunger/satiety cues) and higher Body Mass Index (BMI), and intuitive eating training is commonly conceptualized as protective against the effects of IWS on poor behavioral health. The 3-way relationship between IWS, intuitive eating, and BMI has yet to be examined, and it is unclear whether the link between IWS and BMI is buffered by high intuitive eating. This secondary preliminary analysis examined baseline data of stressed adults with poor diet (N = 75, 70% female, 64.1% White, 42.7% with overweight/obesity) in a parent clinical trial that tested the effects of yoga on diet and stress. Validated self-report surveys of IWS and intuitive eating were analyzed with objectively-assessed BMI. Moderated regression analyses using the SPSS PROCESS macro tested whether intuitive eating moderated the IWS-BMI link. The analysis revealed IWS was positively associated with BMI except among people with high intuitive eating. Results extend observational findings linking intuitive eating to lower BMI, and offer preliminary support for the hypothesis that this link may hold even among those with greater IWS. It's possible that individuals with lower BMI and greater IWS may gravitate more towards intuitive eating than those with greater BMI, and/or intuitive eating may be an important target for ameliorating the adverse association of IWS with behavioral and physical health indicators linked to BMI. Continued work is warranted in larger, more generalizable samples using causal and prospective designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tosca D. Braun
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT 06269-1020,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine at Brown University,Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, 196 Richmond St., Providence, RI, 02903
| | - Jessica L. Unick
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine at Brown University,Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center, The Miriam Hospital, 196 Richmond St., Providence, RI, 02903
| | - Ana M. Abrantes
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine at Brown University,Behavioral Medicine and Addictions Research, Butler Hospital
| | - Kristy Dalrymple
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine at Brown University,Lifespan Physician’s Group, 146 West River Street, Suite 11B, Providence, RI 02904
| | - Lisa A. Conboy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston MA 02215,New England School of Acupuncture, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
| | - Elizabeth Schifano
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, 215 Glenbrook Road U4120, Storrs, CT 06269
| | - Crystal L. Park
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
| | - Sara Lazar
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA,Department of Psychology, Harvard Medical School
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12
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Lucibello KM, Nesbitt AE, Solomon-Krakus S, Sabiston CM. Internalized weight stigma and the relationship between weight perception and negative body-related self-conscious emotions. Body Image 2021; 37:84-88. [PMID: 33596497 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2021.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Individuals who perceive themselves as "overweight" experience higher negative body-related self-conscious emotions than those who do not. Theoretical and empirical evidence suggests internalized weight stigma may be an important mediator of the relationship between weight perception and self-conscious emotions. Overcoming common measurement limitations and sampling limitations, the present study investigated whether gender moderates the associations among weight perceptions, internalized weight stigma, and negative body-related self-conscious emotions in 104 young adults (64 % women). Individuals who perceived themselves as too heavy (52 %) experienced higher body-related shame and guilt compared to those who perceived themselves as about right. Internalized weight stigma mediated these associations in women but not men, such that perceiving oneself as too heavy was associated with higher internalized weight stigma, which was associated with higher body-related shame and guilt in women. Results underscore the importance of internalized weight stigma as a potential target for intervention among women of diverse weight statuses who are prone to experiencing body-related shame and guilt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Lucibello
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2W6, Canada
| | - Amy E Nesbitt
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Shauna Solomon-Krakus
- Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, Ontario, M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Catherine M Sabiston
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2W6, Canada.
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13
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Pearl RL, Puhl RM, Lessard LM, Himmelstein MS, Foster GD. Prevalence and correlates of weight bias internalization in weight management: A multinational study. SSM Popul Health 2021; 13:100755. [PMID: 33718581 PMCID: PMC7920853 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Weight bias internalization (WBI) is an understudied form of internalized stigma, particularly among treatment-seeking adults with overweight/obesity. The current study surveyed 13,996 adults currently engaged in weight management in the first multinational study of WBI. From May to July 2020, participants in six Western countries completed the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M) and measures of weight change, health behaviors, psychosocial well-being, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Participants were majority white, female, middle-aged, and categorized as having overweight or obesity based on body mass index. Results showed higher mean WBIS-M scores among participants in the UK, Australia, and France than in Germany, the US, and Canada. Across all countries, and controlling for participant characteristics and experiences of weight stigma, WBIS-M scores were associated with greater weight gain in the past year. Participants with higher WBIS-M scores also reported poorer mental and physical HRQOL, less eating and physical activity self-efficacy, greater engagement in eating as a coping strategy, more avoidance of going to the gym, poorer body image, and greater perceived stress. Few interaction effects were found between experiences and internalization of weight stigma. Overall, the current findings support WBI as a robust correlate of adverse weight-related health indices across six Western countries. Prospective and experimental studies are needed to determine directionality and causality in the relationship between WBI and poor health outcomes. Differences in weight bias internalization (WBI) were found between six Western countries. WBI was associated with weight gain in the past year across countries. WBI was associated with adverse weight-related health indices across countries. Associations with weight and health were stronger for WBI than weight stigma experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Pearl
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Corresponding author. Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, P.O. Box 100165, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| | - Rebecca M. Puhl
- Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Leah M. Lessard
- Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA
| | | | - Gary D. Foster
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- WW International, Inc., New York, NY, USA
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14
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Meadows A, Higgs S. A bifactor analysis of the Weight Bias Internalization Scale: What are we really measuring? Body Image 2020; 33:137-151. [PMID: 32155463 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Internalized weight stigma (IWS) has been linked with disordered eating behavior, both directly, and as a mediator of the relationship between experienced weight stigma and maladaptive coping. However, the construct of IWS is highly correlated with the related constructs of body image and global self-esteem, and the three constructs may better be represented by underlying trait self-judgment. This overlap is not generally accounted for in existing studies. The present study investigated the shared variance between self-esteem, body image, and IWS in an international sample of higher-weight individuals. Bifactor analysis confirmed that the intermediary role of IWS in the relationship between experienced stigma and self-reported eating behavior was largely accounted for by aspects of body image and global self-esteem. Greater conceptual clarity in the study of IWS is needed to understand the mechanisms via which societal weight stigma impacts on individuals' self-directed judgments and downstream health-related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Meadows
- School of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 5C2, Canada.
| | - Suzanne Higgs
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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15
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Pearl RL, Hopkins CH, Berkowitz RI, Wadden TA. Group cognitive-behavioral treatment for internalized weight stigma: a pilot study. Eat Weight Disord 2018; 23:357-362. [PMID: 27787772 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-016-0336-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study tested a novel group-based, cognitive-behavioral intervention designed to reduce internalized weight stigma among individuals with obesity. METHODS A total of eight men and women with obesity who had experienced weight stigma and reported high levels of internalized weight stigma attended the Weight Bias Internalization and Stigma (BIAS) Program. The program provided eight weekly sessions of cognitive-behavioral treatment to cope with weight stigma. Participants completed questionnaires pre- and post-intervention, including the Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS), Fat Phobia Scale, Weight Efficacy Life-Style Questionnaire (WEL), and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Six additional participants were included in a quasi-control group that received no intervention until after completing all study measures. RESULTS Participants in the Weight BIAS Program reported significantly greater decreases in WBIS and Fat Phobia scores, and greater increases in WEL scores than participants in the quasi-control group (ps < .04). Changes in BDI-II scores did not differ between groups. Treatment-acceptability ratings were high among participants who received the intervention. CONCLUSION Including cognitive-behavioral strategies to address weight stigma in weight management programs could potentially reduce internalized weight stigma and enhance treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Pearl
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Christina H Hopkins
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robert I Berkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Thomas A Wadden
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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16
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Mensinger JL, Calogero RM, Tylka TL. Internalized weight stigma moderates eating behavior outcomes in women with high BMI participating in a healthy living program. Appetite 2016; 102:32-43. [PMID: 26829370 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2016.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Weight stigma is a significant socio-structural barrier to reducing health disparities and improving quality of life for higher weight individuals. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of internalized weight stigma on eating behaviors after participating in a randomized controlled trial comparing the health benefits of a weight-neutral program to a conventional weight-management program for 80 community women with high body mass index (BMI > 30, age range: 30-45). Programs involved 6 months of facilitator-guided weekly group meetings using structured manuals. Assessments occurred at baseline, post-intervention (6 months), and 24-months post-randomization. Eating behavior outcome measurements included the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire and the Intuitive Eating Scale. Intention-to-treat linear mixed models were used to test for higher-order interactions between internalized weight stigma, group, and time. Findings revealed significant 3-way and 2-way interactions between internalized weight stigma, group, and time for disordered and adaptive eating behaviors, respectively. Only weight-neutral program participants with low internalized weight stigma improved global disordered eating scores. Participants from both programs with low internalized weight stigma improved adaptive eating at 6 months, but only weight-neutral program participants maintained changes at follow-up. Participants with high internalized weight stigma demonstrated no changes in disordered and adaptive eating, regardless of program. In order to enhance the overall benefit from weight-neutral approaches, these findings underscore the need to incorporate more innovative and direct methods to reduce internalized weight stigma for women with high BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janell L Mensinger
- Reading Health System, Sixth Avenue and Spruce Street, West Reading, PA 19611, USA; Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions 1601 Cherry Street, 3 Parkway Building, 9th Floor, MS 9503, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA.
| | - Rachel M Calogero
- University of Kent School of Psychology, Keynes College Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK.
| | - Tracy L Tylka
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychology 225 Psychology Building, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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