Overt weight stigma, psychological distress and weight loss treatment outcomes

Abstract

Weight stigma is pervasive and is associated with psychosocial distress. Little research has examined the association between weight stigma and weight loss treatment outcomes. The current investigation examined overt weight stigma, depression, binge eating, and weight loss treatment outcomes in a sample of 55 overweight and obese adults. Overt weight stigma was significantly associated with greater depression and binge eating and poorer weight loss treatment outcomes in a 14-week behavioral weight loss program, suggesting that overt weight stigma may be detrimental to overweight and obese individuals' ability to lose weight and engage in behaviors consistent with weight loss.