Bad words: why language counts in our work with bariatric patients.
Stephanie Sogg; Allison Grupski; John B Dixon
Abstract
Language is powerful. Our words convey our impressions, attitudes, and worldview. Language not only reflects, but also shapes, the way that we think. In the field of bariatric-metabolic surgery, it is critical for clinicians to choose our language thoughtfully. In this paper, we demonstrate the importance of language choices in our clinical work and our professional communications; explore the potential pitfalls of words and phrases commonly used in the field of obesity; and encourage the use of more productive language choices in our communications with patients and professional colleagues, both within and outside of our field.
| Journal | SURGERY FOR OBESITY AND RELATED DISEASES : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR BARIATRIC SURGERY |
| ISSN | 1878-7533 |
| Published | 01 May 2018 |
| Volume | 14 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Pages | 682-692 |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.soard.2018.01.013 |
| Type | Journal Article |
| Sponsorship |