Stigma and Behaviour

Question 1

What is behaviour change?

Answer 1

• Theories and frameworks help us navigate behaviour change
• Often discussed at an individual level
• Socioecological framework
  Individual -> interpersonal -> institutional -> community -> public policy

Question 2

What is stigma?

Answer 2

Experienced with an attribute or a trait that is SOCIALLY devalued and has macro- and micro-level implications on people who may resonate or have that trait.

Question 3

What is health-stigma?

Answer 3

Experienced in relation to a physical, mental or social health condition that is SOCIALLY devalued and has macro- and micro-level implications on people who may resonate or have that trait.

Question 4

What is weight stigma?

Answer 4

Negative social stereotypes and misconceptions associated with body weight

Question 5

What are some stereotypes and misconceptions associated with obesity? (5 points)

Answer 5

1. Unhealthy
2. Lazy
3. Weak-willed
4. Unsuccessful
5. Lack of self-discipline

Question 6

What is the prevailing narrative for the cause of obesity and weight stigma?

Answer 6

The person is individually responsible

Question 7

What are the experiences of weight stigma in healthcare? (3 points)

Answer 7

1. Dismissive
2. Weight-centred
3. Assuming failure

Question 8

What are the experiences of weight stigma in social spaces? (2 points)

Answer 8

1. Looking at your plate
2. Weight-centred jokes and comments

Question 9

What are the experiences of weight stigma in the media? (1 point)

Answer 9

Characterizing larger bodies as comical or ‘non-heroes’

Question 10

What are three impacts of weight stigma on behaviours?

Answer 10

1. Avoiding spaces where weight stigma may occur (gym etc.)
2. Maladaptive coping behaviours (overeating, undereating, addiction to exercise etc.)
3. Reduced access to care

Question 11

What can experiencing weight bias and stigma cause? (3 points)

Answer 11

1. An increase in the risk of experiencing internalized weight bias
2. Acceptance and self-direction of negative stereotypes associated with their weight
3. Associated with poor mental health outcomes and weight gain

Question 12

What is the difference between weight stigma and weight bias?

Answer 12

Weight stigma is a social perspective while weight biases are views we may hold

Question 13

What are implicit biases?

Answer 13

Unintentional biases

Question 14

Weight discrimination

Answer 14

Acting on stigmas and biases

Question 15

Is the lived experience a powerful learning tool?

Answer 15

Yes