Feasibility and Acceptability of a Guided Self-Help, Text-Messaging Intervention to Promote Positive Body Image of Emerging Adult Women

Abstract

The predominant approach of existing eating disorder prevention programs targets risk factors for development; furthermore, burgeoning evidence suggests that promotion of protective factors against eating disorders (e.g., positive body image) is also a worthy avenue for prevention efforts. The present study considered existing literature gaps in the design of an 8-week guided self-help intervention meant to address the risk for disordered eating through the improvement of positive body image and enhancement of current adaptive functioning. The intervention incorporated elements of weight-inclusive health promotion (e.g., Health at Every Size; HAES) alongside positive psychology and third-wave behavioral interventions [e.g., self-compassion, mindful eating, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)] to promote engagement in mindful-self-care. This mixed-methods study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the text-messaging based intervention in a diverse sample of cisgender college women (N = 30; 30% Black; 30% bisexual) at risk for disordered eating. Results indicated a high level of engagement and satisfaction with the intervention. Proof of concept was preliminarily supported by the observed significant changes in variables of interest (i.e., body appreciation, positive embodiment, mindful self-care, intuitive eating, self-compassion, disordered eating, and body image dissatisfaction) across the intervention. Overall, results of this study suggest that the use of a guided self-help program based in technology which seeks to reduce risk factors for disordered eating while also supporting adaptive functioning may be indicated for emerging adult women. This article will discuss how the present study provides the groundwork for continued development of innovative and remotely accessible interventions which promote positive body image.

Factibilidad y aceptabilidad de un programa virtual de prevención integrada de problemas relacionados con la alimentación, el peso y la imagen corporal (programa PIA- 2 virtual): Experiencia del usuario

“…A su vez, los resultados sobre el nivel de satisfacción con el diseño de la plataforma y el nivel de comprensión respecto del contenido del programa coinciden con los resultados obtenidos por Rogers et al (2022). Al igual que en el presente estudio, las personas usuarias del programa de autoayuda evaluado mencionaron que se trataba de un programa amigable y comprensible.…”

“…Tal como se menciona en otros estudios (Neil et al, 2009;Nitsch et al, 2019), la adherencia puede haberse visto favorecida debido al entorno escolar en el que fue implementado. Rogers et al (2022) también hallaron un alto nivel de compromiso y cumplimiento por parte de las personas usuarias. Este nivel alto de finalización del Programa PIA-2 virtual pone de manifiesto la viabilidad o factibilidad del programa.…”

“…Se trata de un aspecto de gran relevancia debido a su influencia en la eficacia de los programas o tratamientos (Morrison et al, 2014). Rogers et al (2022) evaluaron la aceptabilidad de una intervención virtual de autoayuda para promover una imagen corporal positiva mediante el análisis de la adherencia al programa y el nivel de compromiso con el mismo, la satisfacción con el programa, y las debilidades y fortalezas de la intervención.…”