Table I.

Psychological, physical, and social effects of weight stigmatization in children and adolescents

• Emotional and psychological consequences

Weight-based stigmatizing experiences may trigger emotional and psychological effects, including low self-esteem, increased vulnerability to mental diseases, depression, anxiety, drug and other substance use, and poor body image. Self-harm and suicidal behaviors are greater in children and adolescents victimized about their weight compared with peers of the same age and weight who have not been target of weight stigmatization

• Social isolation and poor academic outcomes

Weight-based victimization induces social isolation and is the cause of poor academic outcomes. Weight-based discrimination in school influences the relationships between students and generates a progressive decline in school performance compared with previous years. Often children and adolescents disengage from their academic duties and school environment.

• Unhealthy eating behaviors

Weight-based harassment worsens unhealthy eating behaviors.

• Reduced physical activity

Exercise and physical activities are severely impacted by weight-based stigmatization. Socializing physical activities are significantly reduced, further influencing the relationships with peers and minimizing the motivations to follow antiobesity treatments.

• Worsening obesity

Being victims of weight-based stigma may often demotivate the victims, who perceive as useless their efforts to improve their condition. Weight stigma and discrimination increase the risk of developing and continuing to have obesity over time.