The Correlation of Weight Self-Stigma and Social Appearance Anxiety in People With Obesity

Abstract Background: Obese individuals are exposed to stigma and social appearance anxiety. Internalized weight stigma negatively affects mood, self-esteem, body image in obese individuals. Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the correlation of weight self-stigma and social appearance anxiety in people with obesity. Methods: The sample size of the study, which was conducted as a relational descriptor, consisted of 224 patients. "Descriptive Characteristics Form", "Internalized Weight Bias Scale" and " Social Appearance Anxiety Scale " were used as data collection tools in the research. Results: It was determined that there was a statistically strong positive correlation between internalized weight stigma and social appearance anxiety of obese individuals participating in the study (p<0.05). In addition, it was determined that internalized weight stigma had statistical significance in explaining social appearance anxiety in obese individuals and predicted it at a rate of 67% (p<0.05). Conclusions: Considering the scale total score average in the study, it was found that the internalized weight stigma/bias and social appearance anxiety of obese individuals were high.