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Weight Stigma in Youth: Prevalence, Consequences, and Considerations for Clinical Practice

  • Childhood Obesity (A Kelly and C Fox, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes recent evidence on weight stigma experienced by youth with overweight or obesity. We examine the prevalence and sources of weight-based victimization targeting youth, consequences of these stigmatizing experiences for their psychological and physical health, and considerations for addressing weight stigma in clinical practice and pediatric care.

Recent Findings

Weight stigma is highly prevalent among youth with high body weight, who are targets of weight-based victimization from peers, parents, and teachers. These experiences place youth at risk for psychological distress (primarily depressive symptoms, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation), worse social and academic outcomes, and adverse physical health consequences including maladaptive eating behaviors, lower physical activity, substance use, and weight gain.

Summary

Healthcare professionals and clinicians have important roles to play in efforts to help reduce weight stigma and support youth with obesity. Fundamental to these efforts is the use of supportive, compassionate, and non-stigmatizing communication with youth and their families.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA

    Rebecca M. Puhl

  2. Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, One Constitution Plaza, Suite 600, Hartford, CT, 0610, USA

    Rebecca M. Puhl & Leah M. Lessard

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  1. Rebecca M. Puhl
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  2. Leah M. Lessard
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Correspondence to Rebecca M. Puhl.

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Puhl, R.M., Lessard, L.M. Weight Stigma in Youth: Prevalence, Consequences, and Considerations for Clinical Practice. Curr Obes Rep 9, 402–411 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-020-00408-8

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