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What Is The Mental Impact Of Being Fat Shamed?
New Jersey / New York Based Dr Frieda Birnbaum (http://www.doctorfrieda.com) a Research Psychologist, Psychoanalyst and Author is available for interviews in Studio, via Satellite or Skype.
Dr. Frieda Birnbaum Says:
- When pointing out to someone that you perceive them as being overweight and you do it in a condescending matter, it will likely have a negative effect on that person. Subconsciously, weight gain is can be associated with shielding & protection so when a person fat shames another, they may actually provoke that person into gaining more weight.
- According to The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, more than two-thirds (68.8 percent) of US adults are considered to be overweight or obese. If people want to fat shame someone, they should consider doing it to the person in the mirror before anyone else.
- People react to criticism differently and a person who is fat shamed one too many times might actually decide to use that energy as a catalyst to transform their bodies. Often when a person makes the decision to reduce their weight, it's because they are no longer happy with their current body image. A person's decision to lose weight can also come from self love and wanting to attain optimal health.
- If someone in your life is overweight and you wish to convey your concern for them, always do it in a positive manner with lots of love and not in a negative tone. Your love and encourgement can have a positive impact that individual's mental health in the short & long term.
About Dr. Frieda Birnbaum
NY Metropolitan Based - Dr Frieda Birnbaum is a Research Psychologist, Psychoanalyst and Author of " Life Begins at 60: A New View on Motherhood, Marriage, and Reinventing Ourselves." She's an expert on depression, women's issues, and attaining happiness.
Dr. Frieda on WPIX 11 News
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