Exploring the climate for overweight and obese students in a student health setting

Attitudes and beliefs of health care providers, in conjunction with a nonthreatening physical environment, are important components in establishing a constructive and supportive climate for care of overweight and obese students.

The authors explored providers' attitudes about obesity and assessed the physical environment in a student health clinic to identify areas that may be detrimental to the care of overweight and obese students.

Eighteen direct care providers participated in the project.

The authors conducted focus groups with direct care providers and assessed their experiences and perceived challenges in working with overweight and obese students. The authors also conducted a walk-through assessment of the physical environment.

Direct care providers expressed discomfort in deciding how and when to discuss weight with students. The authors found that elements of the physical environment could present barriers to care for overweight and obese students.

The authors make recommendations for improving the health care climate for overweight and obese students.