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Published on: November 19, 2015
Weight stigma in existing romantic relationships
Alice D Boyes1, Janet D Latner
1Department of Psychology, University of Canterbury, New Zealand.
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|May 26, 2009
Summary
Heavier women reported lower relationship quality and perceived their partners as less desirable. Men's body mass index (BMI) did not significantly impact relationship functioning, suggesting unique challenges for women.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Health and relationship studies
Background:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat.
- Relationship quality is a key aspect of well-being.
- Societal perceptions of weight can influence interpersonal dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and relationship quality.
- To explore partner perceptions and relationship functioning in relation to BMI.
- To identify potential mechanisms behind relationship difficulties experienced by heavier women.
Main Methods:
- Studied 57 dating or married couples.
- Assessed associations between individuals' BMI and relationship quality.
- Examined partner perceptions of warmth, trustworthiness, attractiveness, and ideal match.
Main Results:
- Higher BMI in women was linked to lower relationship quality and perceived partner desirability.
- Women with higher BMI anticipated relationship dissolution and lower partner ratings of warmth/trustworthiness.
- Male partners rated heavier women as less attractive and poorer matches to their ideals.
- Men's BMI showed no significant association with relationship functioning.
Conclusions:
- Heavier women face unique relationship challenges potentially linked to societal biases and partner perceptions.
- Weight-related factors may influence relationship satisfaction and stability for women more than for men.
- Further research is needed to understand and address these weight-related relationship disparities.
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