The following is a sample dialogue to help start a conversation with the patient about their health and weight management. Download a pdf or read below.
The Obesity Bias
Critical Conversations: Motivational Interviewing
DON’T: Imply you know what’s best for the patient whether they like it or not.
DO: Let the individual take the lead in their own health. Ask the person what word they would prefer to use to discuss their weight.
“What words do you feel most comfortable using while we have this conversation?”
DON’T: Use words that may have made the person feel shamed and stigmatized in the past such as: obese, fat, heavy, or large.
DO: Use neutral words such as: weight or unhealthy weight.
“I know it’s difficult to talk about, but right now you’re at an unhealthy weight.”
DON’T: Assume that the individual wants to lose weight.
DO: Give the person agency to make their own decision and tell you whether or not they want your help to lose weight.
“How are you feeling about your weight? If you’re interested in losing weight, I’m here to help.”
DON’T: Point to a BMI chart or a number on the scale and say, “Your number is too high. You’re obese because you have an unhealthy lifestyle and you overeat.”
DO: Use that BMI or weight number to start a discussion about options.