Date Created

5-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Applied Psychology and Counselor Education, APCE Student Work

First Advisor

Wright, Stephen L.

First Committee Member

Johnson, Brian

Second Committee Member

Murdock, Jennifer

Third Committee Member

Slagel, Nicholas

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand the unique lived experiences of healthcare professionals who practiced from a weight-inclusive lens. This study was guided by the following research questions:

Q1 What is the unique lived experience of a healthcare provider practicing from a weight-inclusive lens?

Q2 What are the significant experiences that have influenced the development of weight-inclusive providers’ attitudes (i.e., thoughts, feelings, and behaviors)?

Data from these findings were analyzed using Giorgi’s (2009) descriptive phenomenological method to discover rich descriptions and themes of weight-inclusive healthcare practitioners' experiences. The study explored the significant experiences and supports that influenced their attitudes as weight-inclusive providers through in-depth individual interviews. With client welfare in mind, healthcare providers could play a crucial role in addressing weight bias within the mental health and medical fields, thereby promoting greater acceptance of the inherent diversity of body shapes and sizes in client-focused work. Furthermore, the study also aimed to extrapolate the meaning of and further define the experience of practicing from a weight-inclusive lens within the medical and mental health fields. Understanding the nuanced expertise of current weight-inclusive healthcare professionals could further support the development of weight-inclusive curricula, training programs, and the application of these principles to practice for both mental and medical professionals. This research could also help inform policymakers and others providing psychoeducational outreach.

Abstract Format

html

Keywords

weight; stigma; inclusivity; body size; healthcare provider; phenomenology; qualitative

Language

English

Extent

147 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

Digital Origin

Born digital

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