Self-reflection: Relationship Building in Patients With Excess Weight

• Patients with obesity or excessive weight can be considered vulnerable populations.
• NPs must address potential obesity bias, which can affect relationship formation.
• Reflection can foster insight into antiobesity attitudes and behaviors.

Obesity or excess weight is a well-documented health problem. Obesity bias is prevalent in society, and literature suggests obesity bias exists among health care providers. This article addresses the bias and stigmatization associated with weight and outlines ethical principles for nurse practitioners caring for vulnerable populations such as the obese. Self-reflection, a key method to address potential provider obesity bias, is outlined through use of the Johns Model for Structured Reflection.