A Service Learning Based Project to Change Implicit and Explicit Bias toward Obese Individuals in Kinesiology Pre-Professionals

Abstract

Background: The objective of the study was to assess the efficacy of a multi-component intervention to reduce kinesiology pre-professionals’ implicit and explicit bias. Method: A pre-post experimental design, which consisted of an experimental group (n = 42) and a control group (n = 36), was conducted to assess the efficacy of the intervention using both implicit and explicit obesity bias measures. Results: On the pre-test, participants did not display overall explicit bias on the Anti-Fat Attitudes Test (AFAT) but had strong implicit bias and bias on the lazy/motivated semantic differential scale. Participation in the intervention reduced explicit bias on the AFAT social character disparagement and weight control/blame subscales but not implicit bias. Conclusion: Implicit bias remains difficult to change and appears to be deep-seated in individuals’ minds. Future interventions may need methods to make sure all participants process and connect emotionally to all information.