Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
Intended and unintended effects of an eating disorder educational program: impact of presenter identity
Marlene B Schwartz1, Jennifer J Thomas, Kristin M Bohan
1Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8205, USA. marlene.schwartz@yale.edu
Objective:
This study examines the impact of presenter identity on the intended and unintended effects of an eating disorder educational program.
Method:
High school students viewed one of two identical videotaped discussions about eating disorders. In one condition, the presenter was identified as an "eating disorder specialist"; in the other condition, she was identified as a "recovered patient." Before and after watching the video, participants reported on their awareness of various eating disorder symptoms, their beliefs about individuals with eating disorders, and their opinion of the presenter.
Results:
At Time 2, both groups reported increased knowledge about eating disorders. There was also evidence of increased endorsement of a number of implicit messages, particularly among those in the "recovered patient" group (e.g., "Girls with eating disorders are very pretty"; "It would be nice to look like" the presenter).
Conclusion:
The unintended effects of eating disorder educational programs should be investigated before implementation because of their potential to undermine program efficacy.
Related Concept Videos
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Self-Presentation
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Bulimia Nervosa
Managing Impressions
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth. This guiding role...
