Psychological Risks

The psychological risks identified by various studies are related to low self esteem (Myers and Vargas, 2000; Clocksin et al., 2002), and negative body image due to the unattractiveness associated with being obese. This stereotype is dominant in media and in society. Whether we pick up a magazine or watch television, the belief that thin is better and more desirable than being overweight is evident (Lewis & Hill, 1998). Many other psychological risks are identified in the study by Clocksin et al. (2002), these include “…depression (Livingstone, 2000), social stigmatization (Baskin et al., 2001; Wabitsch, 2000), discrimination (Dietz, 1998), and poor body image (Dietz, 1998; Wabitsch, 2000)” (p.261).