Weight self-stigma, weight bias internalization, and eating attitudes in relation to body appreciation

Objective This study aimed to investigate the relationships between weight self-stigma, weight bias internalization, eating attitudes, and body appreciation in young adults, and to ascertain the distinct impact of these variables on body appreciation. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out including young adults aged 19 to 35 years, comprising 69.6% females and 30.4% males. Participants completed a questionnaire evaluating weight self-stigma, internalization of weight bias, eating attitudes, and body appreciation. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to assess the additional impacts of weight-related stigma and eating attitudes on body appreciation, while adjusting for demographic and anthropometric factors. Results Weight self-stigma, particularly the internalization of weight bias, showed a significant negative association with body appreciation. Weight self-stigma and its subdimensions (self-devaluation and fear of enacted stigma) had substantial negative correlations with body appreciation. These correlations encompassed the subdimensions of body appreciation, specifically general body appreciation and body image investment. While eating attitudes did not show a significant correlation with body appreciation at the bivariate level, they became a significant predictor in the hierarchical regression model, suggesting a conditional (suppression) effect after accounting for weight-related stigma and BMI. Conclusion The findings emphasize the important function of weight-related stigma in diminishing body appreciation among young adults and stress the necessity of examining eating attitudes in conjunction with stigma-related factors. Interventions designed to enhance positive body image should focus on both internalized weight stigma and maladaptive eating-related attitudes.