Social distortion in weight perception: a decomposition of the obesity epidemic

This paper examines the influence of social norms on obesity. We introduce a concept norm related to distortion in weight perception and developed through shared experiences environment with high prevalence The theoretical model shows that, when obesity is common, it less likely be recognized as an issue, its commonality mitigates individual’s health concerns. Using regional data from Health Survey for England, we show empirical measures that such component significantly influences individual weight. use marked difference rates between 2002 2006 perform Fairlie decomposition analysis. Our findings suggest exclude norms, estimates explain 42% gap. When include 46% 77% overall Stratifying result by gender, men, especially low-skilled, are more susceptible distortion. Similarly, medium- low-skilled women environmental pressure than highly-skilled women, who utterly unaffected it. In addition, broader set pressures affect men. These results concern over his/her body closely actual reference network.