Celebratory Day: Preventing Body-shaming Through Sports and Physical Activity

On June 1, 2023, the Fondazione Child for the Development of Childhood and Adolescence organised a day of awareness focusing on body shaming and bullying related to physical appearance. The event specifically highlighted the role of sports and physical activity as tools for inclusion and prevention. This initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader mission to promote mental health and the well-being of children and adolescents through active listening, research, and targeted interventions.

A Multilevel Approach with Esteemed Partners

The initiative, organized in collaboration with Telefono Azzurro, was made possible thanks to the support of the Department of Family Policies of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and Sapienza University of Rome. The event saw the participation of experts and professionals from various sectors, including academia and sports, with the shared goal of combating body shaming and discrimination related to weight issues.

Notable speakers included Prof. Ernesto Caffo, President of the Fondazione Child and Telefono Azzurro, who presented data collected by Telefono Azzurro through its 1.96.96 helpline, which recorded 275 cases of bullying from January 2022 to April 2023, 59% of which were related to the victims’ physical appearance.

Focusing on the Link Between Body Shaming and Sports

Sports, often associated with competition and physical performance, can become a breeding ground for exclusion and ridicule, especially among young people. The event highlighted how weight-related body shaming, which includes bullying against those considered too thin or too heavy, is a growing issue, particularly in school and sports settings. Data provided by Telefono Azzurro showed a concerning rise in weight-based bullying during sports activities, underscoring the urgent need to promote inclusion and respect through inclusive sports practices.

Expert Contributions and Testimonials

The event featured expert contributions from Prof. Caterina Lombardo, who introduced the project “Prevention and Combat of Weight-Based Bullying: Sports and Physical Activity for a Multilevel Intervention.” She emphasized how physical activities can serve as a tool to combat youth distress related to body image.

Moreover, testimonials from successful athletes shed light on personal experiences with body shaming discrimination. Among them, world basketball champion Chiara Vingione and athlete Lisa Pivi shared their resilience journeys, showing how sports can serve as a powerful tool for inclusion and personal empowerment.

Results and Direct Testimonials from Students

A key event moment was the presentation of the project’s results, which involved various schools and institutions, yielding significant reductions in body shaming and bullying among the young participants. Testimonials from students and teachers highlighted the effectiveness of an integrated approach between sports, education, and awareness and the importance of creating safe and inclusive school environments.

The Future of Prevention: Ongoing Listening and Education

Looking ahead, the Fondazione Child remains firmly committed to promoting mental health and combating discrimination through research, education, and active listening. Together with institutional partners and the scientific community, the Foundation will continue to promote concrete actions to prevent bullying and body shaming, educating young people on inclusion and respect for everyone’s rights.

A Special Thank You to All Participants

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, partners, and supporters who contributed to the success of this day. With your support, the Fondazione Child continues to work towards a future where every child and adolescent feels valued, protected, and heard.