Weighty Words: Expanding and Embodying the Accounts Framework

Using embodied sociology, literature on overweight/obesity/fatness and qualitative data generated during a study of masculinities and weight-related issues, this paper explores various accounts that help bridge the gap between slim ideals and bulky realities. As well as bringing together and categorizing weight-related accounts according to their status as justifications or excuses, two additional aligning actions are discussed: contrition and repudiation. These concepts are grounded, respectively, in a discussion of intentional weight loss and size activism. The value of re-reading classic social theory in a corporeal light is underscored and qualitative data on male embodiment are presented.