Imagine growing up in a home that reinforces the need for a strong educational background, athleticism, and on outgoing personality, but, you are none of those things. Instead, you are obese, depressed, and struggling with learning disabilities. Nothing comes easy to you and you have to work hard to learn. That was me. Fortunately, I have a family that is supportive, loving, and encouraging at all times, allowing me to grow into a strong, independent individual. My family’s support helped me deal with ongoing harassment, discrimination, and prejudice throughout my school career.
I have encountered people who were cruel, judgmental and degrading throughout my life. My obesity created significant challenges for me, including dealing with prejudicial comments and behaviors by others. The prejudices and discrimination began when I was in the sixth grade and gained considerable weight due to some new medications I had to take. I was uncomfortable with myself to the point of hating myself and shying away from social contact. This was compounded by other students making rude comments like “eat that fatty” as they threw food at me. This became a daily ritual at school, causing me to feel embarrassed and humiliated. The harassment continued even after adult intervention. At first, it was kids I didn’t know, but eventually even some I once considered friends were getting in on the act. I was even ostracized by other overweight students because they did not want to become targets also.
Looking back at this behavior from the viewpoint of Parrillo (2010), I realize that the prejudice displayed by others was probably more Sociological based than Psychological. More specifically, the prejudice stems from the socialization process where individuals develop their beliefs and values based on accepted norms of society . One just needs to look at the popular media to realize that physical fitness and athletic builds are the perceived ideal in America and obesity is clearly not ideal. This viewpoint can lead others to believe that making fun of “the fat kid” is acceptable.
While the prejudice displayed towards me for being obese was, more than likely, Sociological, there may also have been some Psychological basis to the prejudice. Parrillo pointed out that one form of Psychological prejudice may be based on displaced aggression. This is when individuals address anger toward others that they perceive as weaker or powerless as a means to cover up their own insecurities (Parrillo, p. 508). This may be a part of their personality that developed as a result of parents who are overly demanding, causing the individual to nurture latent hostility toward their parents that they take out on others.
Fortunately, for me at least, I had the support of my family as I was growing up. Through their love and understanding, I was able to cope with the prejudice and discrimination, and I like to think that I have become a stronger, more stable person because of my experiences.
References
Parrillo, V. "Causes of Prejudice." Colombo, G., Cullen, R. & Lisle, B. Rereading America. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2013. 504-516. Textbook.
