Primary prevention of risk factors for eating disorders in adolescent girls: learning from practice

Int J Eat Disord. 2002 Dec;32(4):401-11. doi: 10.1002/eat.10089.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness and feasibility of a primary prevention program for risk factors for eating disorders in adolescent girls.

Method: Nearly 500 seventh-grade girls participated in "Full of Ourselves: Advancing Girl Power, Health, and Leadership," and were assessed at baseline, immediately after program completion, and 6 months later on several self-report measures of knowledge, body image, and eating and weight-related behaviors.

Results: Significant differences were found between participants and controls on measures of knowledge and weight-related body esteem, which were maintained at 6-month follow-up. Eating related behaviors, including skipping meals and dieting, appeared unaffected by program participation.

Discussion: The program was feasible, safe, and resulted in positive and maintained changes in knowledge and weight satisfaction for adolescent girls.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology
  • Attitude to Health
  • Body Image
  • Child
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / etiology*
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / psychology
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Health Education / methods*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • New England
  • Primary Prevention / methods*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Risk Factors
  • School Health Services
  • Self Concept