Internalized weight stigma and compulsive exercise among college students: a variable-centered and person-centered analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Internalized weight stigma may be associated with compulsive exercise through body-related self-conscious emotions and negative body image, but the underlying pathways and individual-level heterogeneity remain unclear.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 513 college students. Structural equation modeling was used to examine direct and indirect associations, and latent profile analysis was used to identify subgroups of body-related distress.

RESULTS

Internalized weight stigma was positively associated with compulsive exercise. Body shame, body guilt, and negative body image state showed significant indirect associations, including two significant serial mediation pathways. Three profiles were identified: low, moderate, and high distress. The high-distress profile had the highest compulsive exercise score.

DISCUSSION: These findings identify possible psychological pathways and a subgroup with jointly elevated distress. Because the study was cross-sectional, causal conclusions cannot be drawn.