J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs.  2021 Jun;32(2):140-149. 10.12799/jkachn.2021.32.2.140.

Factors Associated with the Weight Bias Internalization of the Girls in Early Adolescence

• Ra JS
• Kim SO

• KMID: 2526095
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2021.32.2.140

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to identify factors (biological, psychological, interpersonal, and contextual factors) associated with the weight bias internalization of the Korean girls in early adolescence.
Methods
This study used a cross-sectional design. Data was collected from 233 girls aged 12~14 years with a self-reported questionnaire. With multiple regression analysis, the factors associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence were analyzed.
Results
Of psychosocial factors, fear to fat (anti-fat attitude) (β=.43, p<.001) was associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence. In addition, attachment with teachers (β=-.11, p=.029) of an interpersonal factor and perceived socio-cultural pressure regarding weight control (β=.34, p<.001) of a contextual factor were associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence.
Conclusion
For releasing the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence, decreasing anti-fat attitude and socio-cultural pressure regarding weight control should be primarily required through social efforts including community and school based interventions.

Keyword

Weight prejudice; Women; Adolescent