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

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.