Childhood obesity is a serious problem for the Italian healthcare system, often associated with significant stigma in different settings, including the medical system. Despite the fact that obesity is now recognized as a disease, primary care and hospital pediatricians and difficult to face the treatment with families in a relaxed and effective manner. The presence of psychosocial correlates, such as reduced self-esteem, experiences of bullying and social stigma represent a strong obstacle to change. In particular, the use of words perceived as offensive can create a barrier between the patient and the caregiver, influencing the adherence to treatment. We report on the preliminary results of a questionnaire completed by 249 overweight or obese children and 391 parents to identify the terms which are perceived as the most motivating in the dialogue between overweight children, parents and practitioners without causing guilt and judgment. The study took place from June 2019 to February 2020. Out of the 10 suggested terms, “unhealthy weight” and “weight” were considered as the most motivating, while “very fat” and “fat” were regarded as the most offensive. Pediatricians should use non-deriding terms and avoid words perceived offensive. They should rely upon patients themselves in the choice of the right words.
