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Weight-Based Stigma and Body Image in Severe Obesity

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Psychiatric Care in Severe Obesity

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Abstract

In this chapter, we first review the negative effects associated with weight-based stigma and discrimination in individuals with severe obesity, challenges with the assessment of these constructs, and some promising psychosocial interventions for stigma reduction. We then provide an overview of body image in individuals with severe obesity, including body image concerns, the impact of weight loss and psychosocial interventions on body image, and issues regarding the assessment of body image in individuals with severe obesity. Finally, we use a case example to discuss some tools that can be used to assess weight-related stigma/discrimination and body image in individuals with severe obesity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5B 2K3

    Stephanie E. Cassin Ph.D., C.Psych. & Aliza Friedman MA

  2. Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada

    Stephanie E. Cassin Ph.D., C.Psych.

  3. Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada

    Stephanie E. Cassin Ph.D., C.Psych.

Authors
  1. Stephanie E. Cassin Ph.D., C.Psych.
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  2. Aliza Friedman MA
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Correspondence to Stephanie E. Cassin Ph.D., C.Psych. .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Toronto Western Hospital Bariatric Surgery Program, Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

    Sanjeev Sockalingam

  2. Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

    Raed Hawa

Appendix: Helpful Tips for Healthcare Professionals

Appendix: Helpful Tips for Healthcare Professionals

  • Consider the physical space of a medical office environment. Purchasing larger blood pressure cuffs and gowns as well as seats that accommodate individuals who are overweight or obese will help ensure that a space is more inclusive.

  • Be aware of any biases that you may have towards individuals who are overweight or obese, and work towards overcoming them.

  • Recognize that stigmatizing comments and discriminatory treatment do not promote weight loss and instead contribute to increased levels of disordered eating and psychological distress.

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Cassin, S.E., Friedman, A. (2017). Weight-Based Stigma and Body Image in Severe Obesity. In: Sockalingam, S., Hawa, R. (eds) Psychiatric Care in Severe Obesity. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-42536-8_8

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