Self-Discrepancy Theory: Conceptualizing Internalized Weight Bias in Adolescents With Obesity

The purpose of this paper is to understand processes contributing to childhood obesity by embedding internalized weight bias (IWB) within an existing psychological theory called self-discrepancy theory. We conceptualize IWB as a misalignment between adolescents' actual self and internalized ideal and ought self-guides shaped by the social environment. This framework explicates emotional and motivational consequences of self-discrepancies, identifies modifiable clinical targets, and supports hypothesis generation and variable selection for nurse scientists. Overall, this new conceptualization of IWB and obesity can aid nursing science in dismantling systemic weight stigma in obesity treatment, ultimately improving trust and engagement between patients and providers.