The Weighty Consequences of Obesity on Individuals
Obesity, a multifaceted health challenge affecting millions globally, transcends mere physical appearance. Its repercussions extend far beyond the visible, seeping into various aspects of individuals’ lives. This essay examines the far-reaching impact of obesity on people, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, social dynamics, and the broader societal framework. In a world where the scale of societal expectations meets the weight of personal struggles, the impact of obesity on individuals transcends mere numbers on a scale. From the hidden burdens on mental well-being to the outward ripples in social dynamics, obesity weaves a narrative that goes beyond physical appearance, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of individuals’ lives. Explore with us the profound consequences that extend far beyond the surface, delving into the complexities of health, identity, and societal expectations. The impact of obesity on individuals extends beyond the physical realm, permeating into mental and emotional well-being, shaping social dynamics, and contributing to a complex interplay of factors that influence personal identity and societal expectations. Understanding and addressing the multifaceted consequences of obesity are imperative for individual health and fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Obesity, a common health problem, has a profound effect on individuals by severely deteriorating their physical health. The added burden on those affected puts tremendous stress on vital organs, increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Addressing Internalized Weight Bias and Changing Damaged Social Identities for People Living With Obesity” which says that due to widespread institutional, professional, cultural, and personal weight bias, obesity is a stigmatized illness, people who are obese face weight bias in a variety of contexts and throughout their lives, which can negatively affect their prospects for success in life as well as their health and social outcomes(Salas, paragraph 1, sentences 1-3). This paraphrased evidence shows how weight-biased internalization mediates poor mental health scores in persons living with obesity. It also shows how this article also investigates into efforts to reduce weight stigma and discrimination in society, as well as promoting greater inclusivity, understanding, and empathy towards individuals with obesity.
Obesity, far more than a matter of personal appearance or lifestyle choices, is a complex health issue that significantly impacts individuals on multiple levels, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, social dynamics, and broader societal structures. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “The contributions of weight problem perception, BMI, gender, mood, and smoking status to binge eating among college students” which says that research indicates that this specific body image construct contributes more to the prediction of binge eating than dietary restriction and its effect may be mediated by depression and that body image, most notably body dissatisfaction, has been prospectively implicated in binge eating and bulimic symptomatology(Saules, paragraph 3, sentences 1-6). This paraphrased evidence shows how disorder can negatively impact self-confidence and self-acceptance and the media’s portrayal of stereotyped bodies can exacerbate body image issues leading to feelings of inadequacy. It also shows that while binge eating may not necessarily be a direct response to negative affect, days when binges occur tend to be associated with negative mood.
The impact of obesity on individuals is not confined solely to physical health, it extends into the realms of mental and emotional well-being, social dynamics, and self-perception. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Culture, Obesity Stereotypes, Self-Esteem, and the “Thin Ideal”: A Social Identity Perspective” which says that global self-esteem derives from self-esteem in specific domains; the more a culture emphasizes the importance of specific domains for life success, the more self-esteem in those domains will affect global self-esteem, Harter and others have argued, and that particularly among Caucasian adolescents and adults (and even more so for women than for men), self-esteem and body self-esteem are correlated(Klaczynski, slide 4, paragraph 2, sentences 1-9). This paraphrased evidence shows how In extreme cases obese individuals may withdraw from social activities and relationships for fear of judgment or discrimination. It also shows how individuals’ self-esteem and body image are influenced by societal and cultural factors.
Obesity significantly influences individuals by intertwining with various aspects of their lives, including physical health, mental well-being, and societal interactions, understanding the intricate web of consequences stemming from obesity is vital for crafting targeted interventions that not only address immediate health concerns but also contribute to the holistic betterment of individuals in a diverse and interconnected society. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Weight of Modernity: An Intergenerational Study of the Rise of Obesity” which says that discussion of lifestyle tends to attribute health outcomes to personal choice and behavior, as if people were solitary individuals rather than socially and culturally situated actors engaging in meaningful social practices, it can neglect how personal behaviors are structured, constrained or encouraged(Banwell, slide 16, paragraph 2, sentences 10-13). This paraphrased evidence shows that recognizing obesity as a daily struggle with health can prevent individuals from pursuing other aspects of personal development and growth beyond their own weight. It also shows that fatness and thinness have varying significance in different historical and cultural settings.
Obesity significantly shapes individuals by affecting not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Using Marketing Muscle to Sell Fat: The Rise of Obesity in the Modern Economy” which says that a consensus is developing that these two explanations are insufficient to explain significant changes in obesity; careful analysis indicates that increases in caloric consumption, rather than changes in physical activity, account for most, if not all, of the rise in obesity and that two plausible explanations have gained currency: a reduction in the activity intensity of employment and sedentary lifestyles(Zimmerman, slide 3, paragraph 2, sentences 5-15). This paraphrased evidence shows that access to support groups, therapy, and guidance from health professionals can be transformative for individuals who are overweight. It also shows that changes in the composition of employment from a labor-intensive manufacturing and farming economy to a service economy could explain a reduction in caloric expenditure on the job.
In conclusion, the impact of obesity on individuals is pervasive, affecting not only physical health but also mental well-being, social dynamics, economic stability, and the broader societal framework. Recognizing obesity as a complex issue that transcends mere appearance is crucial for developing effective strategies to address and mitigate its consequences. By understanding the intricate interplay between physical health, mental well-being, and societal dynamics, we can work towards fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society, where individuals are supported in their pursuit of holistic health and well-being.
Works Cited:
Banwell Cathy, Dorothy Broom, Jane Dixon, Anna Davies. “Weight of Modernity: An Intergenerational Study of the Rise of Obesity.” Springer Dordrecht, vol 1, no.1, 2012, https://link-springer-com.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/book/10.1007/978-90-481-8957-1#book-header. Retrieved 19 October 2023.
Klaczynski A. Paul, Kristen W. Goold, Jeffrey J. Mudry. “Culture, Obesity Stereotypes, Self-Esteem, and the “Thin Ideal”: A Social Identity Perspective.” Springer Nature, vol 1, no.1, 2004,https://link-springer-com.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/article/10.1023/B%3AJOYO.0000032639.71472.19#Abs1. Retrieved 19 October 2023.
Salas Ramos Ximena, Timothy Caulfield, Arya M. Sharma, Kim D. Raine, Mary Forhan. “Addressing Internalized Weight Bias and Changing Damaged Social Identities for People Living With Obesity.” Frontiers Journals, vol 10, no.1, 2019, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01409. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
Saules K. Karen, Valentina Ivesaj, Amy S. Coilings, Ashley A. Wieldemann, David Saunders-Scott, Flora Hoodin, Kevin Alschule, Nancy E. Angelella. “The contributions of weight problem perception, BMI, gender, mood, and smoking status to binge eating among college students.” Elsevier, vol 10, no.1, 2009, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2008.07.010. Retrieved 18 October 2023.
Zimmerman J. Frederick. “Using Marketing Muscle to Sell Fat: The Rise of Obesity in the Modern Economy.” Annual review of public health, vol. 32, no.1, 2010, https://doi-org.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-090810-182502. Retrieved 20 October 2023.
Outline:
Hook: In a world where the scale of societal expectations meets the weight of personal struggles, the impact of obesity on individuals transcends mere numbers on a scale. From the hidden burdens on mental well-being to the outward ripples in social dynamics, obesity weaves a narrative that goes beyond physical appearance, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of individuals’ lives. Explore with us the profound consequences that extend far beyond the surface, delving into the complexities of health, identity, and societal expectations.
Working Thesis: The impact of obesity on individuals extends beyond the physical realm, permeating into mental and emotional well-being, shaping social dynamics, and contributing to a complex interplay of factors that influence personal identity and societal expectations. Understanding and addressing the multifaceted consequences of obesity are imperative not only for individual health but also for fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Body Paragraph 1: Obesity, a common health problem, has a profound effect on individuals by severely deteriorating their physical health. The added burden on those affected puts tremendous stress on vital organs, increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Addressing Internalized Weight Bias and Changing Damaged Social Identities for People Living With Obesity” which says “Obesity is a stigmatized disease due to pervasive personal, professional, institutional, and cultural weight bias, Individuals with obesity experience weight bias across their lifespan and settings, which can affect their life chances and significantly impact health and social outcomes”(Salas, paragraph 1, sentences 1-3). This evidence shows how weight bias internalization mediates poor mental health scores in persons living with obesity. It also shows how this article also investigates into efforts to reduce weight stigma and discrimination in society, as well as promoting greater inclusivity, understanding, and empathy towards individuals with obesity.
Body Paragraph 2: Obesity, far more than a matter of personal appearance or lifestyle choices, is a complex health issue that significantly impacts individuals on multiple levels, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, social dynamics, and broader societal structures. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “The contributions of weight problem perception, BMI, gender, mood, and smoking status to binge eating among college students” which says “Body image – most notably body dissatisfaction – has been prospectively implicated in binge eating and bulimic symptomatology, Research suggests that this particular body image construct contributes more to the prediction of binge eating than dietary restraint and its effect may be mediated by depression”(Saules, paragraph 3, sentences 1-6). This evidence shows how disorder can negatively impact self-confidence and self-acceptance and the media’s portrayal of stereotyped bodies can exacerbate body image issues leading to feelings of inadequacy. It also shows that while binge eating may not necessarily be a direct response to negative affect, days when binges occur tend to be associated with negative mood.
Body Paragraph 3: The impact of obesity on individuals is not confined solely to physical health, it extends into the realms of mental and emotional well-being, social dynamics, and self-perception. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Culture, Obesity Stereotypes, Self-Esteem, and the “Thin Ideal”: A Social Identity Perspective” which says “Particularly among Caucasian adolescents and adults (and even more so for women than for men), self-esteem and body self-esteem are clearly correlated, as Harter and others have argued, global self-esteem derives from self-esteem in specific domains, the more a culture emphasizes the importance of specific domains for life success, the more self-esteem in those domains will affect global self-esteem”(Klaczynski, slide 4, paragraph 2, sentences 1-9). This evidence shows how In extreme cases obese individuals may withdraw from social activities and relationships for fear of judgment or discrimination. It also shows how individuals’ self-esteem and body image are influenced by societal and cultural factors.
Body Paragraph 4: Obesity significantly influences individuals by intertwining with various aspects of their lives, including physical health, mental well-being, and societal interactions, understanding the intricate web of consequences stemming from obesity is vital for crafting targeted interventions that not only address immediate health concerns but also contribute to the holistic betterment of individuals in a diverse and interconnected society. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Weight of Modernity: An Intergenerational Study of the Rise of Obesity” which says “Discussion of lifestyle tends to attribute health outcomes to personal choice and behavior, as if people were solitary individuals rather than socially and culturally situated actors engaging in meaningful social practices, it can neglect how personal behaviors are structured, constrained or encouraged”(Banwell, slide 16, paragraph 2, sentences 10-13). This evidence shows that recognizing obesity as a daily struggle with health can prevent individuals from pursuing other aspects of personal development and growth beyond their own weight. It also shows that fatness and thinness have varying significance in different historical and cultural settings.
Body Paragraph 5: Obesity significantly shapes individuals by affecting not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Evidence of this can be seen in an article called “Using Marketing Muscle to Sell Fat: The Rise of Obesity in the Modern Economy” which says “Two possible explanations have gained currency: a reduction on the activity intensity of employment and sedentary lifestyles, yet although precise data on physical expenditure are poor and unevenly available, a consensus is emerging that these two explanations are inadequate to explain major shifts in obesity, careful analysis suggests that most or indeed all the increase in obesity is to be explained by increases in caloric consumption, rather than changes in physical activity”(Zimmerman, slide 3, paragraph 2, sentences 5-15). This evidence shows that access to support groups, therapy, and guidance from health professionals can be transformative for individuals who are overweight. It also shows that changes in the composition of employment from a labor-intensive manufacturing and farming economy to a service economy could explain a reduction in caloric expenditure on the job.