Understanding the Link between Weight Self-Stigma and Eating Disorders in Young Women: A Study at Shaqra University

Background and Aims: Weight stigma is on the rise in Saudi Arabia and has been found in various research studies to be associated with multiple psychological issues among Saudis. However, the association between weight stigma and eating disorders remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to examine the association between weight stigma and eating behaviors among young women in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on differences in weight stigma between individuals at risk of developing eating disorders. It explores how weight stigma is connected to various disordered eating behaviors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with a sample of 417 young women who were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using self-administered online questionnaires from January to June 2024. Results: The study found that young women at risk for eating disorders reported significantly higher weight stigma, with obese participants experiencing greater self-stigma than other weight groups. Dieting behaviors were positively correlated with self-stigma, indicating that those who diet may have more negative self-assessments. Bulimic behaviors were associated with fear of enacted stigma, linking disordered eating to perceived external judgment. In contrast, oral control behaviors showed a negative correlation with self-devaluation, suggesting that individuals with higher oral control may experience less weight-related self-stigma. Conclusions: These findings underscore the critical role of stigma in exacerbating eating disorders among young Saudi women. Addressing weight stigma through targeted interventions is essential for improving mental health outcomes and fostering healthier eating behaviors within this population.