Table 1:

Information Provided and Communication Approach used by Virtual Doctor in Study Conditions

Information Type	Genomic	• Body weight has a sizeable heritable component • Weight is controlled in part by genes interacting with and influencing one’s behavior and environment • Individuals with a genomic predisposition for obesity may be at a higher risk for lifelong obesity and may need to work harder than other people to maintain a healthy weight • Importance of diet and physical activity for weight management • Importance of realistic weight loss goals
	Behavioral	• Body weight has a sizeable personal behavior component and is largely under personal control • Weight is controlled by energy in versus energy out, but this balance can be complicated • Individuals who are already overweight may be at higher risk for lifelong obesity, and may need to work harder than other people to maintain a healthy weight • Importance of diet and physical activity for weight management • Importance of realistic weight loss goals
Communication Approach	Supportive	• Nonverbal behavior: positive facial expressions • Paralinguistic behavior: vocal emphasis on supportive message elements • Non-substantive verbal responses: more supportive in nature (e.g., “I know this topic can be a little sensitive”; “I’ll be here to help you work through any issues or setbacks you have”)
	Directive	• Nonverbal behavior: neutral facial expressions • Paralinguistic behavior: vocal emphasis on directive message elements • Non-substantive verbal responses: more directive in nature (e.g., “I know this topic isn’t fun to talk about”; “It’s important that you work through any setbacks that you have”)