Childhood obesity and social stigma: What we know and what we don't know

• Published in: Developmental review 1983-01, Vol.3 (3), p.237-273
• Main Authors: Jarvie, Gregory John, Lahey, Benjamin, Graziano, William, Framer, Edward
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Child clinical studies; Medical sciences; Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry; Psychopathology. Psychiatry
• ISSN: 0273-2297; 1090-2406
• DOI: 10.1016/0273-2297(83)90015-1

Evidence for the development of social stigma associated with body build in childhood, specifically obesity, was critically reviewed. Although there is overwhelming evidence to suggest that children hold a positive stereotype toward a mesomorph (normal) build when compared to other builds, and that this preference increases with age, studies have not convincingly shown a negative stereotype toward the endomorph or obese body build. Furthermore, the belief that obese children are generally discriminated against is without empirical verification. Specifically, it is unclear from the various empirical studies that examine self-esteem and body image, that the psychological consequences of obesity are debilitating. Studies which have noted disturbances in self-concept and body image have sampled clinical populations (youngsters seeking medically supervised reduction); and those studies which have examined nonclinical populations have not found psychological difficulties. Finally, potential moderators such as facial attractiveness × body build interactions, situational contexts, and degree of obesity are examined and new research directions are discussed.