Purpose
Disordered eating are associated with reduced mental and physical health and can lead to harmful behaviors such as extreme diets, excessive exercise and use of supplements and drugs to gain muscle mass and lose body fat. There is a lack of knowledge in terms of preventing disordered eating and enhancing body image in adolescents. Development of prevention and health promotion programs are therefore warranted.
The main aim of the study is to investigate if a universal, school based and health promoting intervention program can prevent development of disordered eating and self-reported eating disorders among boys and girls in 2nd grade high school.
Project Description
High schools in Oslo and Akershus County were asked to participate in the study and consenting schools were randomized into either the intervention- or the control group. The intervention schools received interactive workshops presenting themes such as body image, self-esteem, social media, physical activity, nutrition, and health information. The themes were presented through discussions, individual and group work and through non-time consuming homework. Experts in the field of physical activity and health and nutrition conducted the workshops.