Nurses’ and Nursing Students’ Perceptions Toward People Living in a Larger Body: A Focused Ethnography Research Protocol

Main Article Content

Karyne Duval
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6110-9665
Marie-Pierre Gagnon
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0782-5457
Maria Cecilia Gallani
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3418-9134

Abstract

Introduction: Weight bias, negative attitudes, stigma, and discrimination against individuals living in larger bodies have been observed and documented in various spheres of society, including the nursing profession. However, the perceptions of nurses and nursing students regarding individuals living in larger bodies have not been studied in Quebec (Canada). 
 
Objectives: This study aims to explore the perceptions of Quebec nurses and nursing students regarding individuals living in larger bodies, as well as the factors shaping them to foster a critical and theoretical perspective on weight bias in nursing.
 
Methods: A focused ethnography study with two groups in nursing: 15 nurses working in various care units in a hospital in Québec City, and 15 university nursing students. Data will be gathered through documentary research and semi-structured interviews, including a photo-elicitation activity. The articulation of the emancipatory compassion nursing theory with the attribution theory will support data analysis from a theoretical perspective.
 
Discussion and Research Spin-offs: The results could inform nursing education, clinical practice, and internship supervision, and raise awareness among other health professions, public health stakeholders, and the public about the impacts of weight bias in health care.

Article Details

How to Cite
Duval, K., Gagnon, M.-P., & Gallani, M. C. (2025). Nurses’ and Nursing Students’ Perceptions Toward People Living in a Larger Body: A Focused Ethnography Research Protocol. Science of Nursing and Health Practices. https://doi.org/10.62212/snahp.132
Section
Research protocol articles

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