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From classrooms to campus life: the influence of weight stigma on university students
CaSandra L Swearingen-Stanbrough1, Hillary L Roberts2, Daniela Novotny2
1School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA.
Objective:
This study examined how anticipated weight stigma (AWS) and experienced weight stigma (EWS) influenced college students' academic decisions, campus involvement, psychosocial well-being, and overall university experience.
Participants:
Participants (n = 852) completed an online survey, and 12 students participated in two focus groups.
Methods:
A sequential mixed method design assessed the differential impact of AWS and EWS. Thematic analysis was used to analyze focus groups.
Results:
AWS and EWS were negatively associated with self-esteem, body comfort, and university experience. Focus group participants described avoiding campus activities due to stigma; AWS shaped major selection, EWS contributed to exclusion in academic and social settings, and both forms of stigma influenced decisions to take online courses.
Conclusion:
AWS and EWS affected students' academic and extracurricular choices while negatively influencing psychosocial well-being and the university experience. Findings highlight the need for weight-inclusive environments.
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