Answer to Question #96517 in Psychology for madelyn

Question

Attitudes toward obesity have varied widely both across and within cultures at various historical times. There is evidence that this cultural variation is giving way to an increasing “fat stigma,” even in cultures around the globe that have previously had positive values attached to larger body size. Is the spread of negative views of people who are overweight or obese a good thing or a bad thing for these cultures? Explain your answer from both a physical health and also a psychological health perspective.

Answer 1

It is very unfortunate that negative views are being spread about people in larger sized bodies. They are generally perceived as lazy and unfit, which negatively affects their emotional well-being. The ‘fat’ stigmatization forces them to skip meals to lose extra weight. However, this deprives them of essential nutrients, which lowers their immunity. Furthermore, constant feelings of shame and low self-esteem forces them into binge eating. Therefore, the society should change its attitude towards larger sized bodies and appreciate them as they are.