Self-Determination Theory as a Framework for an Early Model of Internalized Weight Bias

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Self-Determination Theory as a Framework for an Early Model of Internalized Weight Bias

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Leget, Dakota L

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2022-08

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Abstract

Devaluing oneself based on weight-based stereotypes is known as internalized weight bias (Durso & Latner, 2008) and is associated with adverse health outcomes, like depression, anxiety, and disordered eating behaviors (Pearl & Puhl, 2018). This study examined self-determination theory (SDT) constructs as mechanisms explaining differential vulnerability to internalizing weight stigma. Women ages 18-40 years (N = 480) completed a survey measuring enacted weight stigma, psychological need satisfaction, need frustration, autonomous weight regulation, controlled weight regulation, internalized weight bias, body dissatisfaction, psychological distress, and dysfunctional eating. An exploratory approach to structural equation modeling yielded a model with an acceptable, moderate fit for the data (χ2 = 2520.71, df = 720, p < .001, CMIN/DF = 3.50, RMSEA = .07, SRMR = .10, CFI = .87) and supported the impact of enacted weight stigma on psychological need levels. Enacted weight stigma related to greater need frustration, which then, related to more controlled reasons for engaging in weight-related behaviors. Controlled weight motivation was strongly related to internalized weight bias rather than body satisfaction. The findings supported that distress and dysfunctional eating behavior directly related to internalized weight bias, unlike body satisfaction. Future research should confirm the structural model as SDT constructs may be impactful as targets of prevention and treatment strategies to reduce internalized weight bias and its negative health correlates.

Keywords

internalized weight bias

weight stigma

self-determination theory

basic psychological needs

weight regulation

body satisfaction

dysfunctional eating

distress

Plan Bs (project-based master's degrees)

Master of Arts

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A Plan B Research Project submitted to the faculty of the University of Minnesota by Dakota L. Leget in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts, August 2022.

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Master's Degree Culminating Works
Master of Arts in Psychological Science, in Educational Psychology, and in Counseling Psychology Plan B Project Papers

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Leget, Dakota L. (2022). Self-Determination Theory as a Framework for an Early Model of Internalized Weight Bias. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, https://hdl.handle.net/11299/241463.

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