Transportability of an empirically supported dissonance-based prevention program for eating disorders

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Eating Disorder Prevention

Background:

• Eating disorders are a significant public health concern among young women.
• Cognitive dissonance interventions show promise for preventing disordered eating.
• Dissemination in naturalistic settings is crucial for real-world impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term effectiveness of a cognitive dissonance-based eating disorder prevention program.
• To evaluate the program's impact when delivered under naturalistic conditions within a national sorority.
• To determine if positive effects are maintained over time.

Main Methods:

• A 2-session program was delivered by peer facilitators to 182 undergraduate women.
• Participants were members of a national sorority at a large public university.
• Data were collected at baseline, 5-month, and 1-year follow-ups.

Main Results:

• The program significantly reduced body dissatisfaction, thin-ideal internalization, and dietary restraint.
• Use of media for beauty information and restrained eating behaviors also decreased.
• Effect sizes for all measured outcomes were maintained at 5-month and 1-year follow-ups.

Conclusions:

• Empirically supported eating disorder prevention programs can be effective when disseminated in large social systems.
• Peer-facilitated, naturalistic dissemination of cognitive dissonance interventions is a viable strategy.
• Long-term maintenance of positive effects highlights the program's sustainability.