Long-term Consequences of Weight Bullying
The topic of bullying is in the news a great deal these days. By and large, the focus is on the taunting and violence against those of alternate sexual orientation. What is covered to a lesser degree are the untold numbers of young people throughout our country who are bullied on a daily basis because of their weight. This is extremely troubling because weight bullying can profoundly contribute to shame, depression, anxiety, learned helplessness, and low self-esteem in young people.
Research indicates that 60% of bullying or teasing about weight comes from family members. Perhaps the thought process is that if a child is joked with, or lovingly teased for being overweight by family members, it will result in weight loss. Although the family is well intended, this approach rarely works. Evidence suggests that when kids are teased about their weight, they are more reluctant to exercise or engage in physical activity, due to the fear of being ridiculed. This perpetuates the cycle of lack of exercise and undoubtedly inhibits a child from engaging in group sports. A child is more likely to turn to food for comfort, exacerbating the problem further.
The bottom line is that bullying is abuse, no matter to whom it is inflicted. And when it concerns a child’s weight, it can be particularly devastating. Children, who are bullied about weight in their preteen years are highly susceptible to developing negative self image and body dissatisfaction, which can last into adulthood.
Additionally, a child may feel abandoned and vulnerable because few people will actually defend a child that is being teased about their weight. Although our culture is highly sensitive to taunts about sex, religion or race, if anything, “weightism” is not only accepted, but on the rise. Indeed, it is considered by many to be the last form of socially acceptable prejudice. The negative comments about size and shape we routinely hear in the media often go without comment or objection.
Low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction aren’t the only ramifications of early bullying, especially for females. The shame and embarrassment felt by overweight girls can trigger an eating disorder later in life. In fact, at Remuda Ranch, patients often report that the bullying they received as a child led to extreme dieting, which eventually led to anorexia or bulimia.
There are steps that everyone can take to reduce bullying in today’s world. Families should have a “Zero Tolerance” stand in the home and understand that bullying of anyone at any time for any reason is unacceptable. If a parent suspects a child is the victim of bullying, they should get support from teachers, school administrators, and counselors. If it continues, then help should be sought by the law.
Remember, parents play a key role in creating a home environment that fosters healthful eating and physical activity. The last thing any parent wants to see is a child being teased or ridiculed, especially when it can be avoided. If you are a parent, you have a certain amount of power when it comes to what your child eats and the amount of activity that child engages in. If warranted, take steps to harness that power today. Help your children to have a healthier and more balanced life by modeling healthy behaviors regarding food and exercise, avoid dieting and refrain from weight-related comments. Provide an environment that supports healthy choices and always keep the lines of communication open. Strive to be a parent who talks a lot to their children, and listens even more.
