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Bracing for impact: An intensive longitudinal investigation of weight stigma, vigilant coping, and maladaptive eating

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  • Wetzel, Karen E.
  • Himmelstein, Mary S.
  • Ciesla, Jeffrey A.

Abstract

Interpersonal weight stigma (being teased, treated unfairly, or discriminated against for body weight) increases one's stress and negatively impacts their well-being. Weight stigma consistently increases maladaptive eating behaviors, such as eating to cope, binge eating, and restrictive dieting. Previously published cross-sectional models suggest that vigilant coping (being on the lookout for future discrimination) is one way in which weight stigma may impact maladaptive eating behaviors, especially as internalized weight stigma (self-stigma) increases. This study aimed to analyze these relationships longitudinally using ecological momentary assessments.

Suggested Citation

  • Wetzel, Karen E. & Himmelstein, Mary S. & Ciesla, Jeffrey A., 2025. "Bracing for impact: An intensive longitudinal investigation of weight stigma, vigilant coping, and maladaptive eating," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 371(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:371:y:2025:i:c:s0277953625002333
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.117904
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sawyer, P.J. & Major, B. & Casad, B.J. & Townsend, S.S.M. & Mendes, W.B., 2012. "Discrimination and the stress response: Psychological and physiological consequences of anticipating prejudice in interethnic interactions," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 102(5), pages 1020-1026.
    2. Hicken, Margaret T. & Lee, Hedwig & Hing, Anna K., 2018. "The weight of racism: Vigilance and racial inequalities in weight-related measures," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 199(C), pages 157-166.
    3. Pudney, Ellen V. & Himmelstein, Mary S. & Puhl, Rebecca M. & Foster, Gary D., 2020. "Distressed or not distressed? A mixed methods examination of reactions to weight stigma and implications for emotional wellbeing and internalized weight bias," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 249(C).
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