Throughout much of my life, I’ve strived to embody the notion of the “good fatty.” This wasn’t a deliberate choice; it was simply a recognition of my fatness and the societal belief that, because of my size, my worth would always be questioned compared to those who are thin or average-sized. The idea of challenging this absurd notion didn’t even cross my mind for years. Instead, I sought validation for my body in a world that often overlooks people like me. I realized early on that if I was going to be perceived as fat, I needed to be surprising in some way. Whether through my humor, health, intelligence, or abilities, I thought I had to present a hook to make people look past my body and recognize my value.
Over time, I learned about the term “good fatty,” thanks to the work of fat activist and artist, Jamie Rivers. Rivers created an insightful cartoon series that delves into society’s perceptions of fatness, highlighting the various archetypes that fat individuals often feel pressured to adopt for acceptance. These archetypes serve as coping mechanisms to navigate a world that frequently judges fat bodies. Here are five problematic “good fatty” archetypes that many fat individuals might find themselves embodying:
1. The Perpetual Work-In-Progress
This is perhaps the most recognized type of “good fatty.” These individuals attempt to avoid scrutiny by actively pursuing weight loss or at least feeling obligated to do so. They acknowledge an internalized value in thinness, even if they haven’t achieved that ideal. I have certainly been ensnared by this archetype, often feeling like I needed to be a “work in progress” even in my journey towards body positivity.
2. The Nurturing Figure
This archetype is characterized by a maternal instinct, often positioning the individual as a caretaker or “the mom” of their social circle. Whether or not they are actual mothers, they derive their worth from nurturing others. I fell into this role during my teenage years and have noticed society often prefers fat individuals who downplay their sexuality in favor of a more maternal persona. The world tends to accept fat people more readily when we express self-hate rather than confidence.
3. The Health-Conscious Fatty/Active Fatty
Dubbed the “Fat Unicorn” or “Fathlete,” these individuals possess either exceptional health or remarkable physical abilities, defying the stereotype of fat bodies. They often perform physically in ways society typically associates with thinner bodies. However, the expectation for fat individuals to prove their worth through health or athleticism is deeply problematic, as it suggests respect is conditional upon conforming to these ideals.
4. The Fashionable Fat Person
Often referred to as “Fatshionistas,” these individuals are typically on the smaller end of the plus-size spectrum or possess body shapes that have garnered societal approval. Their ability to flaunt daring styles and showcase curves perpetuates the idea that only certain types of fat bodies are acceptable. This creates harmful implications for those who don’t fit these narrow definitions of beauty.
5. The Big Guy
Men in larger bodies often navigate societal prejudices differently than women. The “Big Man” archetype embodies strength and protection, allowing these men to be more accepted in society. They often enjoy a privilege that women do not; while fat men can embrace their size as a source of power, women face a harsher reality. This disparity highlights the gendered nature of body acceptance.
These identities reveal the complexities of seeking validation in a world obsessed with thinness. While some individuals may find solace in these archetypes, it is essential to understand that every person in a fat body deserves respect simply for being human. The constant judgment surrounding fatness can be overwhelming and painful, and it’s okay to slip into these roles for self-protection. Yet, if you’re navigating life in a fat body, remember: you are inherently worthy and deserving of love just as you are.
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Summary:
The article explores five problematic archetypes that fat individuals often feel compelled to embody in a society that favors thinness. These include the “Perpetual Work-In-Progress,” “Nurturing Figure,” “Health-Conscious Fatty,” “Fashionable Fat Person,” and “Big Guy.” Each archetype highlights the complexities and struggles of seeking acceptance while navigating societal judgments about body size. Ultimately, it emphasizes that every person deserves recognition and respect simply for being themselves.