Abstract
Despite the rise of the body positivity movement, weight stigma persists and has significant negative impacts on both physical and psychological health. This stigma contributes to body image issues, disordered eating patterns and internalization of the fear of fat. The current study adds to the literature on the fear of fat by looking at sociocultural messages from peers, parents, the media, and romantic partners as predictors of the fear of fat. Additionally, the study investigated protective factors like body appreciation and body compassion, as well as risk factors like intersectional discrimination. This research fills gaps in the literature by examining the internalization of sociocultural messages with a sample of young adult women, considering the fear of fat as a construct, and identifying the impact of risk and protective factors. The sample included young adult women aged 18-30 (n = 177) who completed a self-report survey. Media emerged as the most significant influence in the internalization of the fear of fat - more than peers, partners, and parents. Body appreciation moderated the relationship between media and the fear of fat by serving as a protective factor in this relationship. Body compassion and intersectional discrimination showed no significant moderation. The study highlights the influence of sociocultural factors on the fear of fat, specifically media, and emphasizes the importance of addressing these elements within therapeutic interventions to foster body positivity and resilience against societal standards. These findings can be helpful in informing clinical interventions for fostering body appreciation through interventions such as gratitude journaling and body neutrality exercises to support individuals in developing a healthier relationship with their bodies.