Fat talk – the mechanisms and consequences of devaluating one’s own physical appearance
Agata Dutkiewicz

This paper attempts a systematic presentation of the problem of a the psychosocial phenomenon of conversations known as fat talk, i.e. statements, in which a person devalues their own appearance. The popularity of this phenomenon among the population of Western civilization is closely connected with the preoccupation with physicality and physical appearance, characteristic for the contemporary mass culture. The article presents main theories defining fat talk and analysing the mechanisms of its occurrence and persistence. They are rooted mainly in the assumptions of the self-perception theory, the objectification theory, and pluralistic ignorance phenomenon, in order to explain the tendency for engaging in fat talk. Also, based on the findings of current studies regarding the subject, factors predisposing to more frequent self-abasement of one’s physical appearance have been listed. According to the studies, these include being female, adolescent and dissatisfied with one’s appearance despite normal weight or even being underweight. Also the family system and its use of conversations focused on appearance, body weight, etc. plays an important role. The analysis of the literature indicates the existence of short-term positive results of fat talk in terms of relieving unpleasant emotional states in people involved in this type of conversation. However, long-term, severe adverse effects are also observed, including the greater risk for the development of eating, depressive or body dysmorphic disorders, not only among those actively involved in fat talk, but also others participating in such conversations, even passively. Therefore, the problem of fat talk is an important element of clinical practice and psychoprophylaxis.