The main objective of this project is to validate the Spanish version of the eating disorder
prevention program, eBodyProject, proving its effectiveness through its application in a
female university population. A comparison will be made with a standard ACT reporting
program.
The following specific objectives are proposed:
Identify and analyze the risk factors for eating disorders in the university population
Analyze the evolution of ED risk factors throughout the prevention program for each
group (pre- and post-intervention).
Analyze the differences between groups (eBodyProject vs. standard treatment) of the risk
factors for eating disorders throughout the prevention program (pre- and
post-intervention).
Analyze long-term efficacy through follow-ups at 1, 3 and 6 months from the end of the
program for both groups.
Analyze adherence and satisfaction with the program.
What does the study involve?
eBodyProject Intervention
The Spanish adaptation of the eBodyProject program will be modified (Stice et al., 2012b).
This program consists of 4 modules adapted from the most recent version of the original
program The Body Project, presented by the original authors who have given their consent and
suggestions for the realization of the Spanish version.
The activities proposed through the different modules will be in written format or behavioral
activities aimed at criticizing the ideal of feminine beauty imposed by today's society and
promoting self-acceptance. Specifically, each module pursues the following objectives:
Module 1: Origin and definition of the ideal of beauty; Examine the costs of pursuing
the beauty ideal
Module 2: Explore and learn different ways of resisting pressure to pursue the ideal of
beauty
Module 3: Learning to manage and face our own concerns about appearance and cultural
pressures on thinness
Module 4: Learn new and more positive ways to talk about one's appearance Each module
will be carried out independently, following the instructions provided in the web space.
The time available to carry out each module will be one week, with an average duration
of 40-45 minutes per module. Participants will receive feedback from the professional
within the first 2-3 days after the completion of each module. For the promotion of
participation, 1 day before the start of the module and 2 days before its completion
will be remembered.
Psychoeducational intervention for group control
Participants in this group will receive a weekly newsletter with information about the beauty
ideal, the costs of pursuing it, and tips for resisting the pressure to pursue this ideal, as
well as tips for managing the emotions associated with it. However, they will not have to
perform exercises related to this information, a psychoeducational intervention. Once the
study is finished, these participants will receive an email again in case they are interested
in taking part in the eBodyProject prevention program.
What are the possible benefits or risk for the participants?
Benefits
Validation in a Spanish sample of a prevention program that has presented positive
results in other countries for the university population. Therefore, the possibility of
having a preventive tool for eating disorders and therefore reducing their prevalence
among this population.
Contribution in the field of ED prevention, both at the research and practice level. To
have an effective and validated tool for the Spanish population.
Reduction of intervention costs. Prove the efficacy in preventive programs have an
impact on a lower prevalence of EDs and therefore less need for intervention. Reducing
not only economic costs, but also reducing the personal costs resulting from suffering
an eating disorder.
Improve mental health in the university population that has been identified as a
vulnerable population with high prevalence of psychological problems.
Risks This program is preventive and does not pose a risk to the physical or mental health of
the participants. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, if serious cases of ED are
detected, they will be referred to a more specialized treatment adapted to their needs.
If during the development of the program any participant reports discomfort or some type of
negative repercussion, they will immediately be removed from the program and the case will be
studied for referral if necessary.
Where is the study run from?
Spain
When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for?
The study began on 1st November 2022, it is expecting to last two years.
Who is funding the study?
This study is not funded by any organization
Who is the main contact? Dra. Carmen Varela carmenvarela@ub.edu cvarela@ubu.es