The weight of words: investigating the role of weight stigma and body mass index in shaping children and youth's emotional experiences.

Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents has become a significant public health concern worldwide. These conditions not only affect physical health but also contribute to psychological challenges, particularly through weight stigma. Understanding the relationship between weight stigma, body mass index (BMI), and emotional distress is crucial for informing interventions, particularly in cultural contexts where weight-related perceptions vary.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the influence of weight stigma and BMI on the emotional experiences of children and youth in Egypt.

Methods: A descriptive correlational design was employed in 16 preparatory schools, 49 secondary schools, and 20 faculties across various Egyptian governorates. A convenience sample of 2,731 participants aged 12-21 years was included. Data were collected using an online questionnaire that measured BMI, weight stigma, and emotional states (depression, anxiety, and stress) through validated tools. Statistical analyses included chi-square and linear regression tests.

Results: The findings revealed that 22% of participants experienced high levels of weight stigma, which was significantly associated with higher levels of emotional distress (p < 0.001). Weight stigma explained 46.9% of the variance in emotional distress, whereas BMI showed no significant association with emotional states (p = 0.983). Notably, cultural factors, including conflicting societal norms regarding body weight and media influence, appeared to shape weight perceptions and stigma experiences among youth.

Conclusion: Weight stigma is a stronger predictor of emotional distress than BMI, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions addressing weight-based discrimination. Given the cultural nuances influencing weight perception in Egypt, public health initiatives should incorporate culturally sensitive approaches to promote body positivity and mitigate the psychological impact of stigma. These findings contribute to global eating disorder research by highlighting the role of sociocultural factors in shaping weight-related experiences among youth.