Please Use Reliable Sources To Reference On Discussion And Questions
Please use reliable sources to reference on discussion and questions. I need to get 100% on this assignment. Currently have a C in this course. Discussion: Is there a relationship between obesity and socio-economic status? Should obese people be considered a protected class under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act? Why? Support your reasoning with specific examples and please use class material to support your answer . 200 words Essay Question
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Paper For Above instruction
The relationship between obesity and socio-economic status (SES) is well-documented in contemporary research. Individuals with lower SES tend to have higher rates of obesity due to factors such as limited access to healthy foods, inadequate healthcare, and fewer opportunities for physical activity (Ogden et al., 2014). Economic constraints often limit healthy lifestyle choices, leading to higher obesity prevalence among disadvantaged populations. For example, communities with food deserts—areas lacking affordable, nutritious food options—are predominantly inhabited by low-income residents, which correlates with higher obesity rates (Morland et al., 2002). Additionally, stress associated with economic hardship can contribute to unhealthy eating behaviors and weight gain (López-Aroujo et al., 2020).
Regarding whether obese individuals should be considered a protected class under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, arguments can be made both ways. Title VII prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, but it does not explicitly include obesity. However, some courts have recognized obesity as a protected class if it is linked to a medical condition or disability (Maher v. City of New Orleans, 2008). Extending protections could prevent discrimination in employment based on obesity, which is often stigmatized and may hinder job opportunities. For example, obese individuals may face bias in hiring or promotions, affecting their socioeconomic mobility. Thus, considering obesity a protected class could promote equity and reduce discrimination, especially when linked to underlying health issues.
In conclusion, obesity is intertwined with socio-economic factors, and extending legal protections under Title VII could help mitigate discrimination and promote social justice. Recognizing the socio-economic roots of obesity underscores the need for comprehensive policies addressing health disparities while safeguarding individual rights in employment.
References
López-Aroujo, S., Recio, P., & García, D. (2020). Socioeconomic status and obesity: A review of the evidence. Public Health Reviews, 41, 1-14.
Maher v. City of New Orleans, 515 F.3d 337 (5th Cir. 2008).
Morland, K., Wing, S., & Diez Roux, A. (2002). The contextual effect of the local food environment on residents’ diets: The case of New York City. American Journal of Public Health, 92(11), 1761-1767.
Ogden, C. L., Carroll, M. D., Kit, B. K., & Flegal, K. M. (2014). Prevalence of childhood and adult obesity in the United States, 2011-2012. JAMA, 311(8), 806–814.