These findings are noteworthy given that the sample was comprised of professionals who treat and study obesity, a group that understands that obesity is caused by genetic and environmental factors and is not simply a function of individual behavior. Hence, the stigma of obesity is so strong that even those most knowledgeable about the condition infer that obese people have blameworthy behavioral characteristics that contribute to their problem (i.e., being lazy). Furthermore, these biases extend to core characteristics of intelligence and personal worth.
