WEIGHT STIGMA, INTERNALIZED WEIGHT BIAS, AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: EXAMINING BEHAVIORS, MOTIVATIONS, AND GENDER DYNAMICS

Abstract

Weight stigma is a well-documented social determinant that negatively affects physical and psychological health outcomes. Internalized weight bias (IWB) and experienced weight stigma (EWS) have been associated with maladaptive behaviors, including physical inactivity and exercise avoidance, however, few studies have examined how these forms of stigma relate to different types of physical activity (PA), extrinsic motivations for exercise, and social contextual experiences during PA. This study explores the influence of EWS and IWB on PA behaviors, motivations, and avoidance, with specific attention to gender differences and the moderating role of gender. Social contextual variables (e.g., activity type, social media use, interpersonal experiences, and location of PA) were also examined to provide a broader understanding of how stigma operates in PA settings. A nationally representative sample of U.S. adults (N = 435) completed a cross-sectional online survey assessing demographic characteristics, IWB (using the WBIS-M), EWS (using the SSI-B), PA frequency (using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire), weight-related exercise avoidance, and extrinsic exercise motivations (from the EMI-2). Participants also provided open-ended responses to questions assessing social contextual factors involved in their PA. Qualitative data were coded thematically to classify patterns in PA settings and behaviors. Mixed-method data were analyzed using multiple linear regressions, ANCOVAs, MANCOVAs, chi-square tests, and moderation analyses via PROCESS in SPSS. Results indicated that IWB was a strong and consistent predictor of lower PA frequency, greater exercise avoidance, and higher extrinsic motivations for weight management and appearance. EWS was a significant predictor of exercise avoidance and social recognition motivation, though it did not significantly predict PA frequency. Social contextual analyses revealed that individuals who reported no or unclear forms of PA engagement or settings were more likely to experience higher levels of EWS, suggesting disengagement from structured PA may signal perceived stigma. Women reported higher levels of IWB, exercise avoidance, and extrinsic motivations (particularly weight management and appearance), while men were more likely to report public PA settings and social recognition motives. A significant interaction between gender and EWS emerged for appearance motivation, such that EWS was more strongly associated with appearance-driven exercise motives among women. These findings offer insight into how internal and external forms of weight stigma impact motivation, behavior, and exercise engagement. The results highlight the need for stigma-informed interventions and exercise environments that promote autonomy, self-compassion, and intrinsic motivation, particularly for women and individuals higher in IWB. Health promotion efforts should shift away from weight-centric messaging and instead foster inclusive spaces that emphasize function, enjoyment, and psychological well-being. Future research should engage in longitudinal and further mixed-method approaches to further investigate how weight stigma impacts long-term exercise adherence and to develop targeted strategies for mitigating its harmful effects across diverse populations.