Weighing In: Coping with Stigmatization through the Fat Acceptance Movement and Weight Loss Surgery

Author

JaeLyn L. Forthun, Linfield CollegeFollow

Publication Date

2012

Document Type

Thesis (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Faculty Advisor(s)

Rob Gardner

Subject Categories

Sociology

Abstract

This study investigates the social movement, Fat Acceptance, and the personal experiences and discourse of members in online forums that discuss topics such as advocacy and personal struggles, as well as the personal experiences and discourse with members of online groups that went through, or are about to go through, weight-loss surgery. Five interviews with individuals from both groups were conducted for the study and allow for a more in-depth view into the individual experience, supplemented with observations from online blogs and forums. I found that the Fat Acceptance Movement and the WLS (weight loss surgery) community generally opposed discrimination of people of size in society and mirrored each other's arguments over issues of sizeism in the media and daily interactions.

Rights

Terms of Use for work posted in DigitalCommons@Linfield.

Recommended Citation

Forthun, JaeLyn L., "Weighing In: Coping with Stigmatization through the Fat Acceptance Movement and Weight Loss Surgery" (2012). Senior Theses. 5.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/soanstud_theses/5