From classrooms to campus life: the influence of weight stigma on university students

OBJECTIVE: This study examined how anticipated weight stigma (AWS) and experienced weight stigma (EWS) influenced college students' academic decisions, campus involvement, psychosocial well-being, and overall university experience. PARTICIPANTS: = 852) completed an online survey, and 12 students participated in two focus groups. METHODS: A sequential mixed method design assessed the differential impact of AWS and EWS. Thematic analysis was used to analyze focus groups. RESULTS: AWS and EWS were negatively associated with self-esteem, body comfort, and university experience. Focus group participants described avoiding campus activities due to stigma; AWS shaped major selection, EWS contributed to exclusion in academic and social settings, and both forms of stigma influenced decisions to take online courses. CONCLUSION: AWS and EWS affected students' academic and extracurricular choices while negatively influencing psychosocial well-being and the university experience. Findings highlight the need for weight-inclusive environments.