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Effects of a body image curriculum for college students on improved body image
E A Springer1, A J Winzelberg, R Perkins
1Department of Human Biology, Stanford University, California, USA. espringe@student.med.harvard.edu
Objective:
This study evaluated the effects of an undergraduate body image course, "Body Traps: Perspectives on Body Image," on decreasing body dissatisfaction, weight concern, and disordered eating behaviors.
Methods:
Twenty-four undergraduate females enrolled in the body image course. Measures of body image and disordered eating patterns were assessed at baseline and at postintervention.
Results:
Subjects significantly decreased the frequency and severity of their body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. No changes in body mass index or global self-esteem were observed.
Discussion:
This is the first investigation to demonstrate that a formal, academic course can result in the reduction of both attitudinal and behavioral eating disorder risk factors. Future controlled studies need to be undertaken to substantiate this effect.