How to Recognize Fat Discrimination

As the issue of obesity and weight control continues to gain prominence in the media and society in general, questions of discrimination against fat people are becoming more important. Because many people think that being fat is a choice they assume that discrimination is okay. However, this is not the case so follow these steps to recognize fat discrimination.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Educate yourself on the trends. Discrimination against fat people is far more subtle and invidious a phenomenon than the occasional, muttered joke. It occurs throughout all levels of society and, in addition to ruining people's lives, it can be illegal. Refer to the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance to start understanding fat discrimination so you can recognize it when it occurs.
2. Look for in-person behavior differences. One of the most common forms of fat discrimination occurs at the workplace. This kind of discrimination is relatively easy to recognize (even if it's hard to fight) since people who bring excellent resumes and receive enthusiastic email replies from potential employers are simply turned away from the job interview without a reasonable explanation. Look for differences in treatment of overweight people between in-person and distance communication situations.
3. Know the gender issue. While fat discrimination affects both men and women, there are generally more serious and tangible effects on overweight women. So, as statistics are cited showing overweight men get the same jobs as slimmer men, the fact that overweight women are seriously discriminated against gets overlooked. To recognize fat discrimination you need to factor in the gender issue.
4. Look at body language and non-verbal behavior. It is in very rare circumstances that fat discrimination occurs overtly in today's society. To recognize an instance of the discrimination you therefore need to pay attention to the body language and non-verbal communication of people as they interact with overweight people. Frequent glances at the body, smiles and distant attitudes can all be signs of discrimination or prejudice.