In a recent move influenced by an online initiative, Facebook has decided to eliminate the option for users to post “feeling fat” status updates. This change removes a familiar outlet for those of us who enjoy sharing our frustrations about our perceived body flaws. Psychologist Claire Thompson, a proponent of this change, argues that such expressions, often labeled “fat talk,” are unlikely to improve our moods. Instead, they may contribute to feelings of negativity not only for ourselves but also for those around us.
This tendency to engage in self-deprecating conversations isn’t limited to a specific age group; it spans women from ages 16 to 70, as noted in a study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly. Personally, I can attest that my fellow mothers often find themselves lamenting about our bodies—complaining about our rounder midsections, tighter jeans, and wider hips. And don’t even get me started on the changes to our breasts.
Until recently, I hadn’t recognized what Dr. Thompson highlights: these discussions rarely leave me feeling uplifted. In fact, they often lead to a sense of disappointment, prompting me to vow to start a diet, which I usually abandon shortly after, still feeling down.
Interestingly, an article from The Atlantic points out that diets focused on appearance are often the least effective, as they distract individuals from their natural hunger and fullness cues, leading to binge eating. This suggests that if I truly want to shed some pounds for the sake of looking better, I might need to find a way to stop fixating on my appearance—a challenging task indeed. According to Facebook’s initiative, however, I should at least refrain from discussing it.
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In summary, reframing how we discuss our bodies may influence how we feel about them. The elimination of “fat talk” on social media platforms could be a step toward fostering a more positive self-image and encouraging healthier conversations.