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Addressing Weight Bias in the Cisgender Population: Differences between Sexual Orientations
Paolo Meneguzzo1,2, Enrico Collantoni1,2, Valentina Meregalli1,2
1Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy.
Nutrients
|May 14, 2022
Summary
Gay men and bisexual women exhibit higher levels of fat phobia and eating concerns, indicating a vulnerability to weight bias (WB) and body image issues. This research highlights the intersection of sexual orientation and psychological well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Weight bias (WB) is an implicit psychological construct influencing attitudes and psychopathology.
- Sexual orientation's role in body evaluation and psychiatric conditions is understudied regarding bias.
- Investigating the link between sexual orientation and WB is crucial for understanding specific psychopathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the relationship between sexual orientation and weight bias (WB).
- To examine the potential role of this relationship in specific psychopathology.
- To evaluate WB aspects like fat phobia and beliefs about obese individuals.
Main Methods:
- An online survey of 836 cisgender individuals aged 18-42.
- Validated scales assessed fat phobia and beliefs about obese people.
- Demographic data, depression, and eating concerns were collected.
Main Results:
- Gay men and bisexual women reported higher fat phobia, depression, and eating concerns.
- Sexual orientation significantly predicted fat phobia (p < 0.001).
- Sexual orientation also predicted beliefs about obese people (p = 0.014).
Conclusions:
- Gay men and bisexual women are vulnerable to cognitive biases regarding their bodies.
- This vulnerability is linked to heightened body and weight concerns.
- Findings underscore the need for targeted mental health support for these groups.
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