Exploring correlates of weight bias among university students in diverse programs

Objective: This study aims to explore the factors associated with weight bias (WB) among university students in psychosocial, health and education programs. Participants and Methods: WB attitudes were assessed among 585 university students using the Anti-Fat Attitudes (AFA) Questionnaire. Socio-demographic and educational characteristics, weight-and body-related variables, and physical activity were collected. Results: Multivariate linear regression showed that identifying as a man, not having employment, and reporting higher levels of internalized WB (IWB) were associated with higher mean scores on the AFA-Dislike subscale. Identifying as a woman, having higher levels of IWB, lower body mass index and lower body appreciation were associated with higher mean AFA-Fear of Fat scores. Identifying as a man was associated with higher AFA-Willpower scores, while being a student in a psychosocial program was associated with lower scores. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary understanding of factors associated with WB among students, suggesting current interventions may benefit from incorporating gender- and program-specific components.