Abstract

This study explores the relationship between the explanatory model of food addiction and its impact on stigma related to weight. With rising concerns about obesity and its social implications, understanding how different narratives about eating behaviors affect societal attitudes is crucial. This research employs an experimental design to evaluate whether framing eating behaviors as an addiction influences perceptions of individuals with obesity and the associated stigma. The findings indicate that the food addiction model may reduce blame but also has the potential to reinforce negative stereotypes. These results have important implications for public health messaging and stigma reduction efforts