Examining perceived stereotype threat among overweight/obese adults using a multi-threat framework

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Stereotype threat can manifest in various forms, differing in target and source.
• Understanding these nuances is crucial for individuals facing weight-related stereotypes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between different forms of perceived stereotype threat and related factors in overweight and obese individuals.
• To examine how group identity, stereotype endorsement, and stigma consciousness relate to stereotype threat in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 216 adults.
• Data collected included measures of stereotype threat, group identity, stereotype endorsement, stigma consciousness, and fear of fat.

Main Results:

• Participants reported experiencing weight-related stereotype threat, with self/own threat being more prevalent than group threat.
• Stereotype threat levels were associated with personal characteristics (sex, BMI) and individual factors (group identity, stigma consciousness, fear of fat).

Conclusions:

• Overweight individuals frequently encounter negative weight-related stereotypes.
• The Multi-Threat Framework effectively explains stereotype threat in the context of body weight.
• Individual susceptibility to stereotype threat varies based on several influencing factors.