Weight Bias among Physical Educators: A Scoping Review

Authors

  • Luciana Zuest Towson University
  • Mijoo Kim Towson University
  • Andrea Salazar California State University, Chico

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2025-V82-I6-12336

Abstract

This study is a scoping review of empirical research examining weight bias among physical educators. Specifically, we sought to determine the extent, range, nature, and findings of research studies concerning weight bias in physical educators. Five online databases were used to identify studies published in English between 1985 and 2021 according to our search criteria. Upon retrieving 19 publications, we conducted a content analysis and appraisal of each publication. Findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR; Tricco et al., 2018). Studies from nine countries were categorized into four groups based on their focus. All revised studies demonstrated weight bias among participants. Given that weight bias can act as a barrier to engaging higher-weight youth in physical edu-cation, interventions to reduce weight bias in physical educators are warranted. 

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Published

2025-11-02

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Section

Articles