Effectiveness of an Internet-based program for reducing risk factors for eating disorders

This study evaluated an Internet-delivered computer-assisted health educati on (CAHE) program designed to improve body satisfaction and reduce weight/s hape concerns-concerns that have been shown to be risk factors for the deve lopment of eating disorders in young women. Participants were 60 women at a public university randomly assigned to either an intervention or control c ondition. Intervention participants completed the CAHE program Student Bodi es. Measures of body image and disordered eating attitudes were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up. At follow-up, intervent ion participants, compared with controls, reported a significant improvemen t in body image and a decrease in drive for thinness. This program provides evidence for the feasibility and effectiveness of providing health educati on by means of the Internet.