Methods and computer program products for enabling reflection capability in the C programming language are provided. One method includes generating a database for a program written in the C programming language when compiling the program, wherein the database is based on structures included within the program. The method further includes storing the database in memory and utilizing the database during run-time to enable the program to observe and modify its own structure and behavior. One computer program product includes executable portions for performing the above method. Another method includes creating a database for a program written in the C programming language, wherein the type database is based on structures included within the program and is created prior to the program being compiled. This method further comprises storing the database in memory and utilizing the database during run-time to enable the program to observe and modify its own structure and behavior.