Experienced weight stigma, internalized weight bias, and maladaptive eating patterns among heterosexual and sexual minority individuals

Abstract

Purpose: The current study examined experienced weight stigma (EWS), internalized weight bias (IWB), and maladaptive eating patterns (ME) among sexual minority (SM) and heterosexual individuals.

Methods: The sample consisted of cisgender heterosexual and SM men and women. Participants were drawn from introductory psychology classes and a variety of supplemental recruitment methods (Facebook, Instagram, MTURK, etc.).

Results: SM individuals reported higher levels of EWS, IWB, and maladaptive eating patterns than heterosexual individuals. Heterosexual men reported the lowest levels of EWS, IWB, and ME compared to all other groups. Additionally, there was a significant association between greater EWS and IWB and greater ME. Gender identity and sexual orientation impacted the strength of the relationship between IWB and ME and, to a lesser extent, EWS and ME.

Conclusion: This investigation contributes to knowledge of the impact of gender identity and sexual orientation on EWS and IWB, and demonstrates that IWB and EWS are significant concerns for the SM community, especially in relation to ME.

Level of evidence: Level IV, cross-sectional study.

Keywords: Experienced weight stigma; Gender identity; Internalized weight stigma; Maladaptive eating patterns; Sexual orientation.