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Shopping Study

Heather said: "Yahoo news had an interesting article about how heavier people are [URL=http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20050411/ap_on_he_me/fit_obese_shoppers]discriminated [/URL] against when they shop."

Heather said: "I wonder how much "perception" comes into play in this? Many times I would prefer to be left alone when I'm shopping. The fact that a salesperson doesn't approach me most times is no big deal."

Heather said: "Very good point, Holly. There are also stores out there that cater specifically to plus size women. It seems hard to believe that a salesperson at Lane Bryant would go out of their way to be rude."

Darren said: "Studies like this seem sort of corny, though. I'm sure there are more factors in play than just being overweight."

UniqueMystique said: "I can't say that I've had that happen to me. I know people that have though. I have clerks that try to get me to stuff my body into smaller sizes than I can wear because they don't believe that I'm the size that I really am. It's embarassing having to argue with someone over my actual size."

UniqueMystique said: "Yeah...I prefer to be left alone, too. If I need help...I'll ask. Nothng more annoying than a pushy salesperson trying to land some commision. But...why is it when you do need help....you can never find anyone???????"

spectrachic311 said: "I read this article in my newspaper this morning. It seems kind of interesting, but at the same time, you do have to look at other factors...like whether or not the salesperson is grumpy and is treating everyone that way, or if the store is more geared toward teens or something. You never know. But I will toss in my 2 pennies...I have been consistently treated better as a thin shopper than as a heavy one. Especially when it comes to formal dresses, for whatever reason. Too bad that stores don't realize how many customers they lose that way."

Holly said: "I think something to consider about the study, is often we may feel more insecure when we're heavier. Our feelings do affect our perception of how people are treating us. Perhaps the salesperson is helping the skinny gal because she is making a fuss about something? Being a business major and a past salesperson, I can tell you that we don't care what size the pants pocket is...we just want the dollar! :D Also, plus sized clothing costs more, so if you're heavily commission based...more dollars. :D That said, there are some biased people out there and some work in sales."

lotusleaf said: "interesting article, sad but very true. Being overweight is perhaps one of the last discriminations that people think about, but i'm sure we have all been the victim of this at one time or another. I just think that if they dont want my money, i'll go elsewhere where i get good service and a good attitude!!"