Mechanisms underlying the effect of peer fat talk on eating disorder in adolescents and prevention strategies

LIU Xiangfei; ZHONG Yu; WANG Kui

doi:10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0773

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Chinese Journal of Child Health Care ›› 2026, Vol. 34 ›› Issue (9) : 941-945. DOI: 10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0773

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Mechanisms underlying the effect of peer fat talk on eating disorder in adolescents and prevention strategies

LIU Xiangfei^1,2, ZHONG Yu³, WANG Kui^1,2

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Abstract

Eating disorders pose a serious threat to adolescents' physical and mental health. Peer fat talk is increasingly recognized as a key risk factor for the development and maintenance of eating disorders among adolescents. In this review, three main pathways between peer fat talk and adolescent eating disorder risks are identified, namely self-objectification, body dissatisfaction, and negative affect. Accordingly, three school-based prevention strategies are put forward, by minimizing negative peer influence, fostering body acceptance, and equipping adolescents with emotional regulation skills. Future research should prioritize the development and rigorous empirical testing of comprehensive prevention programs tailored to reduce eating disorder risks among Chinese adolescents.

Key words

adolescents / eating disorders / fat talk / mechanism / prevention

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LIU Xiangfei, ZHONG Yu, WANG Kui. Mechanisms underlying the effect of peer fat talk on eating disorder in adolescents and prevention strategies[J]. Chinese Journal of Child Health Care. 2026, 34(9): 941-945 https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0773

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