Obesity Related Stigma as a Form of Oppression: Implications for Social Work Education

Abstract

Obesity is a growing health problem in the US. In addition to the health problems associated with being grossly overweight, obese individuals also must confront stigma and social exclusion. Weight bias and negative attitudes towards the obese have been widely confirmed in numerous professions. The purpose of this article is two-fold: (1) to discuss the implications of weight-related stigma on obese clients; and (2) to offer pedagogical approaches for reducing discriminatory attitudes against overweight individuals, among MSW students, so that they may provide more effective clinical services to clients struggling with obesity.