Peer discrimination of obese children. Research conducted based on a programme for dealing with aggression organised for children attending elementary school

Introduction: Obese children are victims of weight-based discrimination and stigmatisation. The objective of the study was to analyse the expansion of the phenomenon of peer discrimination against obese children in a group of children at early school age.

Material and methods: The study was performed in an elementary school among four classes of the third grade where psychoeducational classes were conducted regarding ways of dealing with violence at school. There were 98 children aged 9-10 years and 4 teachers participating in the study. The study involved an analysis of the content of the performed drawings, and presentation of interviews with teachers regarding statements made by children during the discussion. The study focused on the phenomenon of peer violence towards obese children.

Results: In 47 (47.96%) prepared drawings, aggression associated with obesity was observed. Interviews showed that the children had a negative stereotype of obesity and they frequently experienced or observed cases of teasing obese peers.

Conclusions: Weight-based discrimination and violence towards obese children are frequently observed or experienced among children aged 9-10 years. Social interventions are required aimed at reducing the level of bias towards obese children, as well as psychopedagogical assistance in this group of children.