ABSTRACT
Clinicians should also work through the experience of investigating and identifying their own programming, paying particular attention to the messages they have received about weight, shape, body image, and food. Identifying programming can be easier if clients contrast the programming they received with programming dissimilar to what they received. Exploring our own and our clients' programming offer the opportunity to explore the difference between programming and beliefs. Experiential exercises can help clients to explore the arbitrary nature of their programming related to their own body images and appearances. Producing one's own programming in either a metaphorical or literal way represents an opportunity to deal with weight, shape, and gender discrimination and practice self-acceptance at the same time. It may allow clients and clinicians the opportunity to be helpful to others, providing alternative, values-driven programming to tune into alongside cultural messages about the thin ideal.
