Primary prevention of disordered eating among preadolescent girls: Feasibility and short-term effect of a community-based intervention

Objective To evaluate a community-based intervention aimed at the primary prevention of disordered eating among preadolescent girls. Design Girl Scout troop members were randomized into control and intervention groups. Program feasibility and effect at postintervention and 3-month follow-up were evaluated. Subjects/setting 226 girls (mean age = 10.6 years, standard deviation=0.7) from 24 Girl Scout troops. Intervention Six 90-minute sessions focusing on media literacy and advocacy skills. Main outcome measures Evaluation focused on program satisfaction and short-term effect on dieting behaviors, body image attitudes, and media knowledge, attitudes, and habits. Statistical analyses performed t tests, chi (2) tests, and analyses of covariance including troop as a random source of variation. Results At baseline. 29% of the girls were trying to lose weight. The program had a notable positive influence on media-related attitudes and behaviors including internalization of sociocultural ideals, self-efficacy to impact weight-related social norms, and print media habits. A modest program effect on body-related knowledge and attitudes was apparent at post-intervention (ie, on body size acceptance, puberty knowledge, and perceived weight status) but not at follow-up. Significant changes were not noted for dieting behaviors, but they were in the hypothesized direction. Satisfaction with the program was high among girls, parents, and leaders. Applications/conclusions It is feasible to use community youth settings, such as the Girl Scouts, to implement interventions to prevent disordered eating behaviors. The program led to positive trends in outcome variables; however, longer and more intensive interventions are needed for lasting changes in body image and dieting behaviors.