HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at Boston, Massachusetts, USA or Virtually from your home or work.
Weight Bias and Stigma in Children manifests in numerous ways, deeply impacting their emotional and physical well-being. Children experiencing weight bias encounter social exclusion, teasing, and bullying, fostering feelings of shame and inadequacy. This bias extends beyond peer interactions, infiltrating healthcare settings, where assumptions about weight can influence treatment and care. The prevailing societal narrative often links weight to personal character, leading to internalized stigma and diminished self-esteem in children. These biases can significantly affect mental health, triggering conditions like depression and anxiety. Educational environments may also perpetuate bias, hindering academic performance and social integration. Additionally, weight bias can exacerbate physical health concerns, as affected children might face barriers to accessing physical activities or proper nutrition due to societal judgments. Addressing weight bias demands a multi-faceted approach, involving education on body diversity and fostering inclusive environments that prioritize health over appearance. Creating supportive communities and promoting positive body image are crucial in mitigating the detrimental effects of weight bias and fostering a generation of empowered and confident children.
