Impact of Repeated Health Behavior Counseling on Women Portraying an Overweight Standardized Patient

ObjectiveTo investigate the influence of participation in a health behavior counseling (HBC) case by examining standardized patients' real-life attitudes and behaviors toward nutrition and physical activity habits.MethodsFocus group sessions were held with 10 standardized patients who regularly participated in the HBC case. Emergent themes were identified using grounded theory data analysis.ResultsStandardized patients reported how participation with role playing in the HBC case prompted personal lifestyle changes. Changes occurred through increased awareness and motivation to make adjustments to health habits, such as exercise and improved food choices.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe HBC model can be an effective method for helping patients to recognize the need to take action and implement positive lifestyle changes.