Exploring the Links Between Culture, Locus of Control and Self-Compassion and their Roles in the Formation of Weight Stigmatization

Tunteeya Yamaoka; Peta Stapleton

Tunteeya Yamaoka Bond University
Peta Stapleton Bond University

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between culture, locus of control, and self-compassion in conceptualizing weight stigmatization. Participants (N = 138) completed self-administered questionnaires, including: the Attitude Towards Obese Persons Scale (ATOP), Beliefs About Obese Persons Scale (BAOP), Anti-Fat Attitudes Scale (AFA), Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC-Form B), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), Individualism/Collectivism Scale (IND/COL), and Marlowe Crown Social Desirability Scale (MCSD Short-Form). Results suggest that self-compassion is a significant negative predictor of weight stigmatization, and had the potential to reduce weight bias. Collectivism was a significant negative predictor of weight stigmatization, and another variable that may reduce weight bias. Internal locus of control was a significant negative predictor of weight stigmatization, and a potential buffer of weight bias. These findings have implications for decreasing anti-fat prejudice and reducing weight stigmatization.

Author Biography

Peta Stapleton, Bond University

Assistant Professor, Psychology

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