Psychometric Properties of the Weight Stigma Coping Scale

Background: In Chile, obesity and weight stigma significantly affect the quality of life and psychological well-being. Coping responses to stigma have a considerable impact on well-being. However, research on coping with weight stigma is limited. This study determined the psychometric properties of the Weight Stigma Coping Scale (WSCS, EAEP for Its Acronym in Spanish), which was created by the research team. Methods: Two samples with university students from La Araucanía, Chile (N = 373 and N = 392), were included using a cross-sectional quantitative design. Results: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were applied, identifying two factors: adaptive and maladaptive coping. The results showed high internal consistency (α = 0.824; ω = 0.831) and convergent construct validity with body dissatisfaction, self-compassion, and internalized weight stigma. Conclusions: The WSCS proved to be a valid and reliable tool for measuring coping strategies for weight stigma, with implications for psychological interventions aimed at improving the well-being of those facing this stigma.