Final answer:
Takaya is in the literature review stage of social research, which involves analyzing existing studies to establish a foundation for new research on the stigma of obesity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Takaya, who is conducting research on the stigma of obesity in America by reading relevant academic articles and information, is in the stage of social research known as literature review. This scholarly step involves examining all existing studies on a topic to lay the groundwork for new research. It is essential for understanding the current state of knowledge on the subject and for identifying gaps that the new study might aim to fill.
The studies and research done by experts like Puhl, Heuer, Kautiainen, Phelan, and Link contribute to a nuanced view of societal issues like obesity, illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of addressing public health and social phenomena.