Mirror exposure reduces body dissatisfaction and anxiety in obese adolescents: a pilot study

Many obese adolescents show intense body shape and weight concerns that render them vulnerable to cognitive biases, psychological distress and eating disorders. Current treatments, however, generally do not address negative body image in obese adolescents. The present pilot study tested if body exposure and describing one's body in a neutral way is an effective approach for increasing body satisfaction in obese adolescents. The exposure was shown to be a powerful strategy to decrease anxiety and to increase body satisfaction. Also body weight at post-treatment was a significant predictor of positive feelings. These results indicate that adding body exposure and neutral description of one's body to a weight reduction programme might be an effective way to increase body satisfaction in obese adolescents.