Fat Talk - by Denise Martz (Paperback)

About the Book

"Women have unintentionally become their own worst enemies through their engagement in 'fat talk'--critical dialogue about one's own physical appearance, and 'body snarking' or criticism towards other women's bodies. This book reviews and analyzes the origins and effects of fat talk and body snarking, and provides potential solutions that include evidence-based personal therapies and community interventions"--

Book Synopsis

Women have unintentionally become their own worst enemies through their engagement in "fat talk"--critical dialogue about one's own physical appearance, and "body snarking" or criticism towards other women's bodies. Not only does this harsh judgment pervade our psyches and societies, it also contributes to the glass ceiling in a variety of professions, including politics representing feminist activism. This book reviews and analyzes the origins and effects of fat talk and body snarking, and provides potential solutions that include evidence-based personal therapies and community interventions.

Review Quotes

"Martz has written an engaging exploration into the inner and outer conversations women have about their bodies and physical appearance.... This book is an important read for women, as it discusses how and why we tear ourselves, and each other, down when it comes to our bodies. The author makes a case for the damaging effects of fat talk and body snarking in the hopes that readers will recognize when they are engaging in these conversations so that they can make an active decision to change the dialogue into something productive and positive...recommended"-Choice

About the Author

Denise Martz is a clinical health psychologist in the Kulynych/Cline Distinguished Professorship at Appalachian State University. She has been publishing her scientific work on fat talk with colleagues and students for the past twelve years. She also has a small private practice in her community.