How to Use Your Thin-Privilege Power for Good

You’ve probably come across the terms skinny-shaming, fat-shaming and thin-privilege and might have wondered what it’s really all about.

Body-shaming in general is dangerous, harmful and damaging to one’s self-esteem and mental health, yet it’s continually practiced every day. Countless women and men endure judgement and discrimination because of their bodies.

Thin-privilege, on the other hand, unofficially exempts smaller built and skinny individuals from these types of attacks. However, they still fall victim to the, “Oh, she’s skinny she can eat whatever she wants,” remarks.

In a sense, none of these attitudes are fair, healthy or acceptable. So what can you do to help?

1. Educate Yourself about Health

The BMI (Body Mass Index) Scale is a regular go-to for determining healthy standards. However, not everyone can be painted with the same brush so it can sometimes be inaccurate and misleading. Someone who might seem overweight might follow a healthier lifestyle routine than you do, or someone who is naturally thin, thanks to genetics might have never set foot in a gym.

Remember, body size doesn’t automatically equate to one thing or another so try not to assume.

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2. Re-assess Your Intentions

Just because you want to help, and you have good intentions still doesn’t mean it’s any of your business. Chances are, you’re just adding to the problem by further body-shaming. The same way a smoker isn’t likely to quit smoking just because you tell them it’s disgusting. Telling someone they need to make healthier choices because they’re “fat” isn’t going to be very motivational.

3. Stop the “Concerned” Excuses

If you hear someone say any of the following: “I’m concerned about your health,” “For your own good,” or “You would be so pretty if…” stop them in their tracks. This is not going to help the situation.

4. Humanize

Give another thought to the proverb we were taught as kids, “Treat others the way we want to be treated.”

Source: Everyday Feminism