Chicago Tribune

Shamed for being fat. Shamed for being fit. Women can't win

When it comes to judgment of their bodies, women can't win.

"Research consistently shows the pressure to maintain a particular physique is stronger for women," said Kelly Brownell, dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University. Brownell, an expert in weight bias, says women are valued more for their appearance, and there is less acceptance of variation in body shape and size.

People often make fat jokes, but shaming of obesity is no joke. "People who experience weight discrimination have more daily stressors, physical symptoms and negative emotions," according to a 2016 study published in Obesity.

There is ample research revealing the negative effects of fat shaming, but what about so-called "fit shaming"? Seeing

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Chicago Tribune

Chicago Tribune5 min read
Brad Biggs: A Look At How Things Could Play Out For Chicago Bears With The NFL Set To Unveil The 2024 Schedule
CHICAGO — The NFL is expected to pull back the curtain this week on the most anticipated schedule for Chicago Bears fans in five years. At this time in 2019, the Bears were coming off a 12-4 season — only two teams had a better record — and hope was
Chicago Tribune2 min readWorld
University Of Chicago Police Clear Protest Encampment Early Tuesday, Days After President Announces Intention To Intervene
CHICAGO — University of Chicago Police cleared a pro-Palestine protest encampment in a brief raid at the South Side university early Tuesday morning, organizers said. About 50 UCPD officers began dismantling tents and makeshift barriers surrounding t
Chicago Tribune5 min readCrime & Violence
Chicago Police Officers Injured Or Killed While Off Duty Highlight Choice To Grant On-duty Benefits
CHICAGO — The Chicago Police Department and its pension board have now each determined that former Officer Danny Golden was performing official police duties just before he was shot and paralyzed outside a bar in the Beverly neighborhood nearly two

Related Books & Audiobooks