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Effectiveness of an Internet-based program for reducing risk factors for eating disorders
A J Winzelberg1, D Eppstein, K L Eldredge
1Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, California 94305-5722, USA. andy@summit.stanford.edu
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
|April 26, 2000
Summary
An Internet-delivered computer-assisted health education (CAHE) program improved body image and reduced thinness concerns in young women. This online health education approach is feasible and effective for preventing eating disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Body dissatisfaction and weight/shape concerns are risk factors for eating disorders.
- Young women are particularly vulnerable to developing disordered eating attitudes.
- Internet-based interventions offer a scalable approach to health education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an Internet-delivered computer-assisted health education (CAHE) program.
- To assess the program's impact on body satisfaction and weight/shape concerns.
- To determine the program's effectiveness in reducing risk factors for eating disorders.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial with 60 female university students.
- Intervention group received the "Student Bodies" CAHE program.
- Measures of body image and disordered eating were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Intervention participants showed significant improvements in body image at follow-up.
- A significant decrease in drive for thinness was observed in the intervention group.
- The CAHE program demonstrated effectiveness compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- Internet-delivered CAHE programs are feasible for delivering health education.
- This program effectively improved body image and reduced disordered eating attitudes.
- Online interventions show promise for eating disorder prevention in young women.