Global Fat Stigma Grows With Obesity Debate
Worldwide Attitudes About Overweight People Turn Negative
A recent Arizona State University study regarding the attitude of people toward obesity shows that the "fat stigma," or a negative attitude toward the overweight, is increasing around the world. In some cases, places that had previously had positive attitudes ("big is beautiful") about plus-sized individuals has now turned negative. In some cases this may be relative to the health problems and costs associated with obesity, or the international dislike of countries where people are more likely to be larger. In the US, there is a much lower stigmatization of obesity than in other countries. Some unusual examples of fat stigmatazation include blaming obese people for global warming, and crediting them with the rise in food prices. A contributing factor to the fat stigma is the idea that overweight people have a moral failing or lack of willpower, so these people are therefore "weak" compared to people who may only be blessed with a faster metabolism. Unfortunately, the fat stigma works against the overweight, as it can cause feelings of inadequacy and rejection that have a real impact on health and may prevent them from seeking help.
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