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The weight of words: Discursive constructions of health in weight-neutral peer-reviewed journal articles.
- Source :
- Body Image; Mar2022, Vol. 40, p358-369, 12p
- Publication Year :
- 2022
-
Abstract
- • A discourse analysis was conducted of weight inclusive (WI) studies. • WI studies use stigmatising and weight normative language like 'overweight' and 'obese.' • WI studies use paradoxical language like 'flexible restraint.' • WI studies emphasize personal responsibility rather than broader societal or systemic factors. Weight-neutral approaches to health, like the Health at Every Size® (HAES®) approach arose in response to emerging evidence showing the negative health consequences of weight-focused approaches through the effects of stigma and marginalization in many settings, including healthcare. While the discourses of dominant 'weight-normative' approaches are well-researched and described, little is known about how language and discourse is creating certain 'truths' about weight-neutral approaches. The aim of this study was to explore how academic discourses create truths about weight-neutral approaches to health. A discourse analysis of 63 academic journal articles was conducted. We found that the language used in academic literature is creating confusing and contradictory messages about weight and weight-neutral approaches to health (like the HAES® approach) through: (i) the continued use of stigmatising and normative labels like 'overweight' and 'obese', (ii) paradoxical language like 'flexible restraint', and (iii) a focus on individual responsibility and blame for health and weight without acknowledgement of broader societal and systemic factors. More research is needed to characterize weight-neutral approaches and develop a clearer framework for researchers wishing to engage with the weight-neutral paradigm of health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 17401445
- Volume :
- 40
- Database :
- Supplemental Index
- Journal :
- Body Image
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 155457276
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.01.009