Examining Unconscious Bias in Clinical Psychology Towards Body Weight

January 6, 2025 - 23:07

With over 20 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, Penny Kokot Louw has long been passionate about research. In 2020, she embarked on the journey of pursuing her Doctor of Health while balancing her professional responsibilities. Her focus has been on the unconscious biases that clinical psychologists may hold towards individuals with higher body weight.

Kokot Louw's research highlights how these biases can affect the therapeutic relationship and treatment outcomes for patients. She emphasizes that many psychologists may not even be aware of their prejudices, which can lead to negative assumptions about a patient's health behaviors and lifestyle choices. This can result in inadequate care and support for those who are overweight or obese.

The implications of these findings are significant, as they call for increased awareness and training for mental health professionals. By addressing and mitigating these biases, psychologists can ensure that all patients receive equitable and compassionate care, ultimately improving the mental health landscape for individuals of all body sizes.