Fostering body acceptance: Evaluating the impact of the Body Project on undergraduate college students
Abstract
Background: College students are particularly vulnerable to developing eating disorders due to the unique pressures and challenges they face during this stressful period. The prevalence of eating disorder risk among American college students has risen significantly, from 15% in 2013 to 28% in 2021. Many colleges have implemented eating disorder prevention programs. These programs have shown promising results in reducing the incidence and severity of eating disorders among students. Interventions like the Body Project, which involves peer-led discussions and activities to challenge societal beauty ideals, have demonstrated significant reductions in eating disorder symptoms and future onset.
Purpose: To assess the experiences and takeaways of peer educators and participants throughout the implementation of the Body Project at a public university in the southeastern U.S.
Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with both peer facilitators and participants in the Body Project. A grounded theory approach was used to evaluate the data. Thematic coding was used to identify patterns and repeating concepts.
Results: Researchers hypothesize that peer facilitators will express continued growth in their teaching, leadership, communication, and professional development skills. Additionally, participants are expected to express more positive relationships with their body, food, and exercise.
Discussion: Research is on-going. Interviews are scheduled throughout December-January. Data collect will conclude February 2025.
Keywords
Body Image, Body Acceptance, Eating Disorder Prevention, College Students, The Body Project, Qualitative
Conflict of Interest Form
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Fostering body acceptance: Evaluating the impact of the Body Project on undergraduate college students
Background: College students are particularly vulnerable to developing eating disorders due to the unique pressures and challenges they face during this stressful period. The prevalence of eating disorder risk among American college students has risen significantly, from 15% in 2013 to 28% in 2021. Many colleges have implemented eating disorder prevention programs. These programs have shown promising results in reducing the incidence and severity of eating disorders among students. Interventions like the Body Project, which involves peer-led discussions and activities to challenge societal beauty ideals, have demonstrated significant reductions in eating disorder symptoms and future onset.
Purpose: To assess the experiences and takeaways of peer educators and participants throughout the implementation of the Body Project at a public university in the southeastern U.S.
Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with both peer facilitators and participants in the Body Project. A grounded theory approach was used to evaluate the data. Thematic coding was used to identify patterns and repeating concepts.
Results: Researchers hypothesize that peer facilitators will express continued growth in their teaching, leadership, communication, and professional development skills. Additionally, participants are expected to express more positive relationships with their body, food, and exercise.
Discussion: Research is on-going. Interviews are scheduled throughout December-January. Data collect will conclude February 2025.
