Taking Weight Out of the Equation: Unintended Harms of Weight-Focused Health Discourse in Schools

Authors

Elizabeth Tingle, University of Calgary
Jessica F. Saunders, Clark University
Sarah Nutter, University of Victoria
Shelly Russell-Mayhew, University of Calgary

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Weight-neutral approaches emphasize improving individuals’ relationships with food and prioritizing emotional and physical well-being over the pursuit of a lower weight as well as support the reduction of stigma experienced by persons with larger bodies. Discourse about health in schools needs to consider students of all sizes as well as the complexities of the relationship that individuals develop with their bodies. A comprehensive school health (CSH) approach is fundamental to ensuring well-being for every body, including teachers and school staff. We offer concrete suggestions for approaching health discourse from a weight-neutral lens, thus optimizing the health of the entire school community. © 2023 SHAPE America.

Publication Title

Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance

Publication Date

2-7-2023

Volume

94

Issue

2

First Page

49

Last Page

58

ISSN

0730-3084

DOI

10.1080/07303084.2022.2146818

Keywords

stigma, obesity, high school, overweight, schools, grade school, middle school, comprehensive school health, CSH, weight-neutral

Repository Citation

Tingle, Elizabeth; Saunders, Jessica F.; Nutter, Sarah; and Russell-Mayhew, Shelly, "Taking Weight Out of the Equation: Unintended Harms of Weight-Focused Health Discourse in Schools" (2023). Psychology. 11.
https://commons.clarku.edu/faculty_psychology/11