New project aims to prevent weight stigma within families

A new project will develop a method to prevent stigmatization and strengthen the well-being of children and young people in connection with overweight treatment.

The method is intended not only to help health professionals address the topic of weight in a more caring and respectful way, but also to support children and their families in everyday life, so that the children do not experience additional pressure and shame.

In addition, the project will result in guidelines and educational materials that can be widely used in the healthcare system – both in Denmark and internationally.

Background of the project

One in five children and young people in Denmark lives with overweight or obesity. Many of them experience stigmatization – that is, being met with prejudice and feeling guilt and shame because of their weight. This can have serious consequences, including loneliness, low self-esteem, reduced quality of life, and in some cases, depression.

At the same time, it can lead to harmful behaviors such as avoiding physical activity, skipping meals, or overeating, which increases the risk of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Children and young people can encounter prejudice and negative comments from peers, teachers, the media, and not least, within their own family. Studies indicate that stigmatization within the family can be particularly harmful, leading to loneliness, stress, and low self-esteem.

Since many treatment programs for children with overweight involve the whole family, it is important to develop methods that both support families and ensure that treatment is carried out in a way that promotes dignity, respect, and inclusion.

The project focuses on the following:

• Prevent stigmatization in families with children living with overweight by identifying and addressing the areas where the risk of stigmatization is greatest.
• Promote health and well-being within families, so that stigmatization does not stand in the way of healthy lifestyle changes.
• Reduce inequality by ensuring that vulnerable children and families are not excluded from communities and health-promoting services.
• Develop practical tools, methods, and educational materials that can be used by health professionals in their work with children and young people.
• Generate new knowledge to better understand how family-focused prevention of stigma can be integrated into the treatment of overweight in children and adolescents.

Project title: “Preventing Stigma in Families”.