Factors Associated with the Weight Bias Internalization of the Girls in Early Adolescence

ABSTRACT

Purpose@#This study aimed to identify factors (biological, psychological, interpersonal, and contextual factors) associated with the weight bias internalization of the Korean girls in early adolescence. @*Methods@#This study used a cross-sectional design. Data was collected from 233 girls aged 12~14 years with a self-reported questionnaire. With multiple regression analysis, the factors associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence were analyzed. @*Results@#Of psychosocial factors, fear to fat (anti-fat attitude) (β=.43, p<.001) was associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence. In addition, attachment with teachers (β=-.11, p=.029) of an interpersonal factor and perceived socio-cultural pressure regarding weight control (β=.34, p<.001) of a contextual factor were associated with the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence. @*Conclusion@#For releasing the weight bias internalization of the girls in early adolescence, decreasing anti-fat attitude and socio-cultural pressure regarding weight control should be primarily required through social efforts including community and school based interventions.