An experimental investigation of physical education teachers’ and coaches’ reactions to weight-based victimization in youth
This study examined PE teachers’ and coaches’ responses to different types of victimization involving average-weight and overweight students. Teachers and coaches were more likely to take action when overweight female students were victims of bullying, specifically in situations of verbal and relational victimization. Male participants were less likely to respond to victimization than female participants. Findings suggest the importance of increasing awareness about weight-based victimization and its consequences, especially among male physical educators. Implications for the psychological, social, and physical development of overweight youth are discussed.
Full citation: Peterson JL, Puhl RM, Luedicke J. An experimental investigation of physical education teachers’ and coaches’ reactions to weight-based victimization in youth. Psychology of Sport and Exercise. 2012;13(2):177-185. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2011.10.009