Exploring medical professionals experiences and perceptions of shaming and stigmatisation in patients that are overweight/obese
Authors
Gallagher, Susan
Issue Date
2020
Degree
Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
Obesity levels are increasing at an alarming rate and presents tremendous threat to the general population. Being overweight or obese can have multiple negative psychological consequences on well-being and health. The development of weight stigmatisation and shaming amongst healthcare professionals is also growing at a significant rate and can contribute to the negative psychological impact. Through research it has been found that healthcare professionals’ inertia to engage with individuals who are overweight or obese is related to the increasing levels of obesity. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the healthcare professional’s experiences and perceptions of stigmatisation and shaming of individuals who are overweight/obese. Various themes emerged from the interviews such as the anti-fat attitudes from healthcare professionals and potential strategies to reduce stigmatisation. Overall, healthcare providers aim to provide the highest level of healthcare to all and to tackle the rate obesity must reduce their levels of patient stigmatisation.