When it comes to your health, whose advice do you trust?
In terms of weight loss or a healthy lifestyle journey, I have more often heard people say that they wouldn't take advice from someone who didn't 'look' like they took their own advice. A new research study suggests that while looks indeed play some role, it may not be the role that you'd expect. This study, published in Preventive Medicine, found that heavier patients tended to trust diet advice from an overweight or obese doctor more often than advice from someone who was not overweight. The researchers attribute this trust to a shared identity between patient and provider. This finding is understandable--if someone shares a part of your identity, you may figure that he or she can empathize to an extent with what you are going through. Therefore, a sense of trust may develop. I found this interesting because as a clinician, I would hope that someone seeking my help would base my credibility on my actions, rather than the way I look. I mean, I think that's what most of us hope for in any relationship or interaction. This study is a reminder that I, as well as other clinicians, have to be mindful in our comments and interactions with patients and clients to facilitate the development of trust. If you can't empathize, at least try to understand where the patient is coming from and tailor your approach accordingly. Talking with any health care provider should be a pleasant experience (to the extent possible) and the patient should not feel intimidated or as if her or she will be judged. There is really no reason to impose your feelings on others or give unwarranted advice (unless you don't want the client to return, that is). A health care provider can be honest and realistic, keeping the patient's health at the forefront without coming off as judgmental. With regard to weight management and healthy lifestyle changes, are you more likely to seek and follow advice from someone who looks like you? Or are you more tuned in to someone who appears similar to a goal size that you hope to achieve? Or is physical appearance more or less irrelevant?
1 Comment
Mom
7/14/2013 11:37:27 pm
Interesting! Personally, when I seek health care advice, I do prefer a provider who appears to live a healthy lifestyle. I guess I look at it as "practice what you preach". Nevertheless, one should learn to put herself in someone's shoes, because for the grace of God, goes I...
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AuthorHello there, my name is Alena and I am a Registered Dietitian! This blog is a platform through which I can share my knowledge and perspectives on a variety of nutrition-related topics. Feel free to contribute by commenting. Archives
November 2021
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