Weight stigmatisation in antiobesity campaigns: The role of images

Abstract

It is important to consider the impact of antiobesity campaign images that depict common obesity stereotypes. Developing, testing and disseminating nonstigmatising campaigns is important to reduce stigma and better engage individuals with antiobesity public health messages. SO WHAT?: Weight stigma has negative consequences for physical and psychological health, which may undermine obesity intervention efforts. Stereotypical images that blame individuals for their weight reinforce obesity stigma and are likely to be in-effective in increasing healthier behaviour and reducing obesity. The development of effective antiobesity campaigns should be a public health priority.