Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Evaluation of a computer-mediated eating disorder intervention program
A J Winzelberg1, C B Taylor, T Sharpe
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, California 94305-5722, USA.
Objective:
This study evaluated an eating disorder intervention multimedia program modeled after self-help eating disorder treatment programs. It was hypothesized that women who completed the program would increase their body satisfaction and decrease their preoccupation with weight and frequency of disordered eating behaviors.
Method:
Participants were 57 undergraduate females randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Psychological functioning was assessed at baseline, at 3 months postintervention, and at 3 months follow-up.
Results:
Intervention group subjects significantly improved their scores on all psychological measures over time. When compared to the control group, however, only the intervention group's improvements on the Body Shape Questionnaire were statistically significant.
Discussion:
This study has demonstrated that minimally effective eating disorder intervention programs can be delivered. A revised program that eliminates interface problems and increases the structure of the intervention is likely to be even better received and more effective.
