Television distorts, mocks and marginalizes fat people. Fat characters are reduced to caricatures whose stories and identities aren’t developed and don’t matter. In one study by Tzoutzou et al., all 36 compliments about appearance given to women were for thin women. Not one positive message was included for a woman of an average or overweight body type. For men, the same pattern was found: only one overweight character received a positive message.
These TV shows tell the audience that external beauty only resides in thinness and excludes anyone who deviates from this definition of beauty. Viewers can internalize this thin ideal, which in turn can make it difficult for the audience to feel good about themselves, especially if their body doesn’t fit this body standard. Seeing the treatment of fat people on TV can affect how viewers think about their own bodies, especially if their body type doesn’t fit the thin ideal.
Bigger Bodies, Smaller Roles
Not only is the representation of fat people overwhelmingly negative, but fat bodies are underrepresented on TV shows.
This pattern of dehumanizing fat people continues when they don’t get the chance to develop their characters. They are often represented as a comedy sidekick or as villains.
In comedy, we often don’t laugh with fat women, but at them. Overweight women are about twice as likely to be the reason for a joke than thinner women. They also have smaller roles, less romantic relationships, and are in “fewer positive interactions than thin characters”.
Media often represents fat characters as villains as well. One study by Himes and Thompson “found that obesity was equated with negative traits (evil, unattractive, unfriendly, cruel) in 64% of the most popular children’s videos”. Examples of this can be seen in famous children’s movies with characters such as Ursula from The Little Mermaid or The Queen of Heartsfrom Alice In Wonderland. These villains help to draw the connecting line between fat and negative qualities Fat characters become less human than other characters who have full stories built around them. Makers of TV don’t just ignore fatness, they demonize it.
Effects on the Audience
The negative portrayal of fat people in TV shows can lead audiences to internalize negative portrayals of being overweight. This internalization can happen quickly: a study by Fouts and Burggraf found that only 30 minutes of watching TV can affect how a young woman views her body which can result in various external struggles.
In the study by Tzoutzou et al., girls agreed that the media influenced their desire to be thin and fit the beauty standard. This can cause frequent dieting because many eating problems are due to unrealistic body standards, an image that mass media often transmits.
Not only can these misrepresentations of fat people lead to low self-esteem, but it can lead viewers to believe that they will be treated in the sexist ways that they see on TV if they don’t fit the body norm to avoid this.
All of these aspects have the potential to make a female viewer feel worse about themselves through their appearance and perceived reactions from other people rooted in fictional and distorted depictions on TV.
TV Should be Fun for Everyone
TV is a space that is meant to be enjoyed. But viewers can’t sit back and relax with TV if they feel like their body is being judged by the shows that they put on. All bodies should feel like they have a space within TV shows. All bodies deserve to be seen by a wide audience.
Tori Lieberman is a rising Sophomore at Hamilton college planning on studying Creative Writing and Sociology. You can find examples of her journalism here.
Comments 106
Invisible Bias — July 6, 2023
Now do heightism.
Hugh Jackman playing wolverine.
Camera tricks and staging to obscure shorter male actor height
vlone — July 6, 2023
Enjoy FREE SHIPPING and Top-ranking quality here.Vlone Friends
kivaschuler3984 — July 7, 2023
It is unfortunate to hear that you believe "TV doesn't have space for fatness." It's important to recognize that media representation plays a significant role in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes towards various body types.
kivaschuler3984 — July 7, 2023
It is unfortunate to hear that you believe "TV doesn't have space for fatness." It's important to recognize that media representation plays a significant role in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes towardaka-ms-myrecoverykey
various body types.
Accy — July 9, 2023
Wow, thanks for this info. I always love geometry dash bloodbath
พอตดูดแล้วทิ้ง — July 9, 2023
One of my best articles is yours. It makes me happy every time I read it. พอตดูดแล้วทิ้ง
MyWawaVisit — July 10, 2023
Customers may provide feedback regarding Wawa shops and petrol stations by filling out the online survey MyWawaVisit Customer Satisfaction Survey.
mywaawavisitsurvey.monster
Belinda — July 12, 2023
The online fnaf game, developed by Scott Cawthon, is a horror adventure game in which the player must spend five nights at a pizzeria in which the animatronics come to life.
jiyaca2575 — July 18, 2023
I'm really happy I was can to improve insights from this great Kahoot Login Info
Joyce Jefferson — July 20, 2023
TV often perpetuates harmful stereotypes and unrealistic beauty standards, excluding diverse body types like fatness. The lack of representation reinforces the belief that only thinness is acceptable, alienating millions of viewers. It's essential to promote inclusivity and embrace all body shapes to foster a more accepting and empowering media environment. http://artcitytattoo.net/
Janet Kelly — July 20, 2023
TV has long perpetuated unrealistic beauty standards, leaving little room for diverse body types, including fatness. This exclusion fosters a damaging message, affecting body image and self-esteem. Embracing diversity in all forms, including size, is crucial for promoting inclusivity and representing real-life experiences on our screens. It's time for change http://artcitytattoo.net/
Jobingov — July 23, 2023
It's high time we acknowledge that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and it's imperative that television reflects this reality to create a more authentic and accepting representation of our diverse world.
john — July 23, 2023
Absolutely astonishing blog and exceptional writing! The wealth of information it provided was truly enlightening. Thank you for dedicating so much effort to create this extraordinary piece of content. Your hard work is genuinely appreciated!
Adam Jensen — July 24, 2023
It seems like this comment is about a TV not having space for accommodating larger, thicker, or wider electronic components.
https://www.theleathercity.com/product/the-adam-project-ryan-reynolds-jacket/
Alicent Jenner — July 24, 2023
Great content!
Adam jensen
Will Saldana — July 28, 2023
Thank you, these replies are very good. I also want to tell you about something great io games free
stumble guys — July 31, 2023
very good article, thank you for sharing, i will follow you often stumble guys
Hamid Jason — August 3, 2023
insanely! I found this post link and excited to read.
libretube app — August 8, 2023
Very nice Click here to watch youtube
Water Dispensers — August 9, 2023
Hi there! 🌞 I'm considering getting a water dispensers for my office space. Can anyone share their experiences with buying one online in the UAE? I'm particularly interested in models that offer both hot and cold water options. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
bacopi2263 — August 11, 2023
Your article has some excellent information that is quite helpful to me, therefore I appreciate you sharing
kfcfeedback
BioSource diet — August 11, 2023
Learn about hCG for weight reduction and investigate the top hCG or substitutes on the market for your weight loss guide. hCG Drops are effective for assisting in weight loss .
Alvis Marvin — August 15, 2023
Your essay has some really good information that has proven to be pretty useful to me, and for this reason, I am grateful to you for sharing it. Papa's freezeria
poppy mizzi — August 15, 2023
Welcome to the game, five nights at freddy's security breach will be a good way for you and your kids to have some downtime and relax. There are thousands of fun and interesting games for you to try.
cricut setup for windows and mac — August 18, 2023
Cricut Desktop App is officially known as the Cricut Design Space App. This app is an amazing tool for creating designs using many awesome text, images, and templates. The Cricut Design Space Setup is necessary for using the app. In the following write, you will acquire every bit of information to download and install the Cricut Desktop App on Windows and Mac.
Minesweeper — August 23, 2023
I'm not familiar with this product. It really is amazing and helpful to me.
wahakoh — August 23, 2023
Minesweeper game is not only an entertaining game, but also requires logical thinking and reasoning ability. Players need to be able to analyze information and make correct decisions to avoid mines.
cricut.com setup windows — August 23, 2023
cricut.com/setup is the official link to set up a Cricut machine on your windows or mac device. It’s the best software suite that lets you design and manages all the Cricut cutting projects. Its user interface is straightforward and intuitive. It has a huge font collection and a tool for drawing shapes and cutting lines. Also, it comes with multiple features so that you can add Text, among other things.
saiz — August 23, 2023
Satta King amazing and helpful to me.
vimusic — August 23, 2023
vi music download latest version, listen music online
강남가라오케 — August 26, 2023
역대최저가격강남셔츠룸강남셔츠룸가격정보
Cokernutx — August 29, 2023
Thanks for sharing a nice article About Youth, Sport, and Colonial Selves
CokernutX
allows users to download and install apps, games, and utilities that are not available on the official Apple App Store. Similar to other app installers like Cydia, CokernutX provides a platform for users to access a variety of apps without the need for jailbreaking their devices.
Machinery — September 1, 2023
Yes! TV Should be Fun for Everyone!
TV is a space that is meant to be enjoyed. But viewers can’t sit back and relax with TV if they feel like their body is being judged by the shows that they put on. All bodies should feel like they have a space within TV shows. All bodies deserve to be seen by a wide audience.
https://smroomi.com
Anna — September 1, 2023
It's the evergreen thing - who needs not a perfect picture? Hate it.
Even ordered here - https://ewritingservice.com/ the research about the image on the screen.
Anna — September 1, 2023
It's the evergreen thing - who needs not a perfect picture? Hate it.
Even ordered here - https://ewritingservice.com/ the research about the image on the screen.
tom lake — September 1, 2023
Integrate features that cater to the local audience, such as a local business directory, event calendars, or restaurant reservations, depending on your business type. website design pittsburgh
pubg lite 2023 — September 3, 2023
Victoria Lieberman your article really shows the true fact prevailing in society and people usually don't talk about it. It is necessary to speak on these types of topics whether it is from society, space, race, AI, game pubg mobile lite download, planets, or any other. It gives voice to the people against the discrimination they are facing in their daily lives.
Amora Potter — September 5, 2023
A good and useful article. This article raises important concerns about the representation of fat people in television and the negative impact it can have on individuals. mapquest directions
melonplayground — September 6, 2023
The lack of positive melon playground representation for individuals with diverse body types can contribute to stereotypes and perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards.
ahmed — September 9, 2023
vip desert safari dubai is not just an adventure; it's a luxurious journey into the heart of the Arabian desert, where you'll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Nanasi — September 12, 2023
dino game is a simple running game where you control a T-Rex and try to avoid obstacles for as long as you can. dinosaur game was first built into Google Chrome in 2014, where it could be played without an internet link.
123plus คาสิโน — September 12, 2023
Read your article and understand more about television and there are also characters or cartoons that can be viewed on my phone. Thank you for sharing. 123คาสิโน
Kiefer Auctions — September 14, 2023
Online Auctions Texas is a reputable North Texas-based online auction service provider. Our platform facilitates the buying and selling of various items through a bidding process. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to our users. Join us today and experience the convenience of online auctions.
bergstrom — September 15, 2023
I'm ecstatic to have discovered your website, lol beans and I'm looking forward to many more engaging moments here. Once again, many thanks for providing all of the information.
Paula Vogl — September 16, 2023
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on "TV Doesn't Have Space For Fatness." It's important to have open discussions about diverse body types and representation in media. Your message has encouraged me to explore this topic further.
I'll definitely check out your suggestion to Visit: What is YouTube Vanced and learn more about it. It's always great to discover new content and platforms. Thanks for the recommendation!
Powerlifting Coaches Georgetown TX — September 20, 2023
Are you looking for Powerlifting Coaches Georgetown TX? Look no further! Our team of experienced coaches is here to help you reach your powerlifting goals. We offer personalized training programs tailored to your individual needs and skill level. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced lifter, we've got you covered.
Our coaches are passionate about helping you achieve your best and will provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed. So why wait? Contact us today and let's get started on your powerlifting journey together!
Emilycandy — September 22, 2023
You are a very good writer, and the information is very interesting earn to die.
retro — September 25, 2023
Media, including television, retro bowl plays a significant role in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes towards various aspects of life, including body image.
Bethany Hardy — September 26, 2023
These are the types of games that can be found at play snake. To the fullest extent possible, do it. Before engaging in activities of that nature, individuals must to be subjected to psychological evaluations. People who have a psychological make-up that is too unstable should not participate in such a game. Life is too valuable to throw away just because you came in second place in a competition.
ColoringPagesWK — September 29, 2023
Princesses coloring pages for kids are an excellent way to nurture their creativity while providing them with countless hours of fun and amusement. Coloring offers endless possibilities for your child to explore their imagination and express their emotions. The benefits are not only limited to cognitive and emotional development, but it also promotes social interaction, communication, and collaboration among children.
panorama charter — September 30, 2023
panorama charter is an employee portal created by the charter panorama spectrum.
panorama charter — September 30, 2023
panorama charter is an employee portal created by the charter panorama spectrum.
panorama charter — September 30, 2023
Employees can find their information and access important data directly from the panorama charter login portal.
zetisno zetisno — October 3, 2023
Excessive gaming can lead to Excessive gaming can lead to negative consequences such as addiction, reduced productivity, and health issues. negative consequences such as addiction, reduced productivity, and health issues.
loklokapp — October 6, 2023
https://loklokapp.co/
PUBG Lite apk — October 10, 2023
This is very useful information. this useful content will help to users who want to search on Google.
PUBG Mobile Lite — October 10, 2023
Thanks for sharing useful information. we appreciate to you about this content. i love to play PUBG Lite
Charanjeet Singh — October 11, 2023
This is very useful information, i check your hole website.
Represent Hoodie — October 17, 2023
vlone outlet give you huge discount now in vlone store, welcome to buy our Represent Hoodie now.
bedavakodlar — October 21, 2023
thanx you admin. Nice posts.. Netflix Bedava Hesap
Yogi — November 3, 2023
Thanks! Images appearing in the media are very important cookie clicker 2
timothyferriss — November 7, 2023
The article sheds light on the harmful impact of TV's portrayal of fatness and the need for more inclusive and diverse representations in the media. It calls for greater awareness retro bowl and change in how television represents different body types to promote body positivity and self-acceptance.
lisakim — November 8, 2023
Thank you for spending your precious time sharing this rewarding information! We really need the same information! I hope you can share more. Play game wordle unlimited online.
orabelle hana — November 13, 2023
I think so, too flagle
Jacob Courtney — November 21, 2023
This narrow definition of beauty can negatively impact viewers' self-perception if their body type doesn't align with the thin ideal. It's crucial for television to provide more inclusive and diverse representations of <a href="https://drivem body types to promote body positivity and acceptance.
Jacob Courtney — November 21, 2023
Fat characters are often portrayed as caricatures, with their stories and identities not given proper development or Drive Mad 2 significance.
William — November 27, 2023
Achieve unmatched efficiency with PIM’s dermatology billing services. Our team of seasoned experts and cutting-edge technology make us the ideal choice for your dermatology practice. Minimize claim denials, enhance profitability, and simplify your billing procedures with PIM. With our comprehensive dermatology billing solutions, we ensure you receive rightful compensation for every service rendered.
William — November 27, 2023
The healthcare provider enrollment with Cigna is important because it ensures that healthcare providers meet specific standards and qualifications, which is essential for them to be eligible for participation in Cigna's network and to receive payments for services rendered to Cigna members in any state of the USA. There are number of companies in the USA our Cigna provider enrollment services are highly appreciated by US healthcare specialists.
lindango — November 30, 2023
Thank you very much for taking your precious time to share with us this very useful information. Your article is very good and meaningful. Try playing the game penalty shooters 2 online.
twitch ad block — November 30, 2023
Yayın yapmayı seviyor musun? twitch reklam engelleme, ama araya girip anınızı mahveden reklamlar mı var? O zaman endişelenmeyin ve indirin twitch adblock şimdi ve sınırsız akışın keyfini çıkarın.
run 3 — December 5, 2023
Thanks so much for this information. I have to let you know I concur on several of the points you make here and others may require some further review, but I can see your viewpoint subway surfers unblocked
tmo — December 7, 2023
La popularidad de los programas de manga tmo ha crecido enormemente en España, y Lectortmo ha surgido como una respuesta a esta creciente demanda, ofreciendo una amplia gama de mangas que capturan la atención de personas de todas las edades.
เดิมพันกีฬาออนไลน์ — December 21, 2023
I would like to thank you very much for sharing a great post as well as a very appropriate post.
Scott B. Wilson — January 5, 2024
Thank you for nice article
Bethany Lloyd — January 5, 2024
Thankyou for article check here.
la times crossword — January 16, 2024
Furthermore, I will inaugurate an online introduction in conjunction with the information presented here. This is an exemplary compilation of the games that I have engaged with, encompassing a selection of my most cherished and widely recognized titles. (another topic). Various activities that I am certain you will enjoy.
Seed — January 18, 2024
Great !!
nytimes — January 22, 2024
I love that you told me about this piece; I really enjoy reading it. I was really hoping to find that, and I really hope you keep posting such great information in the years to come. nytimes crossword
kepala bergetar — January 22, 2024
The platform boasts a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it accessible to users of all ages and technical backgrounds
Internrtyu — January 24, 2024
Media plays a crucial role in shaping societal norms and expectations. Encouraging more diverse and realistic representations of drift hunters body types can contribute to a more inclusive and accepting culture.
jeffreestar — January 26, 2024
The representation of fat characters is overwhelmingly negative, with few positive messages or slice master representations of their bodies.
Frew — March 3, 2024
Thanks For Shear This Blog & Play Game Minecraft Download Now: minecraftofficial.com
cole — March 4, 2024
Love this article very informative compare brokers
ASFE — March 4, 2024
Grat Idea Download Now: Minecraft Official
papa's games — March 6, 2024
Because of its easily navigable layout, the platform is used by users of various ages and technical backgrounds.
Kisuyd — March 6, 2024
Thanks for sharing!
papa's games
b2b spa — March 28, 2024
if you looking for body to body massage centres in bangalore then izspa is best place for everyone because prices are very affordable and therapist are lovable.
vexanshop — April 22, 2024
Your articles provide deep insights and considerable value. I'm tempted to bookmark your blog and return frequently for updates. I'm eagerly looking forward to discovering more valuable information here and I wish you the best for your future posts!
Tumble Air Track
Dom — April 29, 2024
The benefits of 오피 for stress relief are incredible. I always feel so relaxed and rejuvenated after a session.
Dom — April 29, 2024
The humor in 무직백수 계백순 never fails to brighten my day. Such a refreshing read!
Dom — April 29, 2024
Discover the best massage spots with 오피가이드 for a truly relaxing experience.
Dom — April 29, 2024
부달 introduces diverse businesses, activities, and cultural experiences, creating a vibrant community for locals and visitors alike.
f2m spa — May 15, 2024
female to male spa near me sessions can boost morale, reduce absenteeism, and increase productivity by alleviating stress and promoting a positive work environment.
AdrienneChan — May 17, 2024
The information provided is written entirely efficiently. It intent profit anyone who uses it. Mind up the great amount to! I'll surely horror game tour more posts.
koni chi — May 28, 2024
I gained the necessary knowledge as a direct consequence of the information provided being entirely precise. Sincerely, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for the provision of this extraordinary insight.
driving directions
Rowanlebsackl — June 13, 2024
This article is so on point! It's like navigating that super-intense, fast-paced game on my phone - you know, the one with the impossible track? Slope, right? You gotta stay focused, or you're going to crash and burn. Same with representation in media, right? We need to see more diverse bodies, more realistic portrayals of life. It's about time the industry gets with the program and stops trying to fit everyone into one tiny, unrealistic mold!
lindango — June 13, 2024
Thank you for sharing a very meaningful article, I think it will be very helpful for me and everyone. Play game planet clicker free.
drift boss — July 11, 2024
I appreciate you providing this insightful information; I believe it will be very beneficial to everyone, including myself.
Losidua — July 11, 2024
I think everyone will benefit greatly from this insightful essay that you shared.
drift boss
Boris — July 19, 2024
Argo Glass & Windows is your trusted partner for home window replacement https://argowindowrepair.com/north-carolina/window-repair-charlotte/window-replacement-charlotte in Charlotte, NC. We specialize in resolving issues like drafts, condensation, and noticeable wear and tear, restoring your windows to optimal performance. Our team works with various major window brands, providing customized solutions that meet your needs and budget. With over eight years of experience, we focus on delivering high-quality service and ensuring customer satisfaction. To learn more about our window replacement services, call us at +17046107676 or visit our location at 4746 Sweden Rd Unit D, Charlotte, NC 28273.
Mel — August 15, 2024
Unquestionably a tremendous effort! Seeing such well-reasoned and articulate ideas written out is inspiring. In addition to being delightful, the writing was exquisite. Please visit Laser Hair Removal in Miami for more information and expert assistance.
Curtl Marvin — August 20, 2024
It's disheartening to see how TV often marginalizes and caricatures fat people. Representation matters, and it’s high time we see more diverse, respectful portrayals. On a different note, retro bowl offers a fantastic escape with its nostalgic, fun gameplay!
Kinsey — September 14, 2024
Users of Vmake Mod generally praise its accessibility to premium features and its ad-free experience. However, some have expressed concerns about the legality and security of using such apps.
Adan Smith — September 21, 2024
BillCare is our worry-free billing service that combines our professional billing with Procentive EHR Login software.
selpinka pioky — September 26, 2024
The multiplayer mode in Drive Mad 2 helps build teamwork and collaboration skills.
kiss Asian — September 28, 2024
"Kissasian