Primary prevention of eating disorders: A constructivist integration of mind and body strategies

Objective: This study investigated the impact of a primary prevention program for eating disorders aimed at fifth-grade females. The curriculum was based on empirically validated risk and protective factors and incorporated interactive discourse, yoga, and relaxation into 10 weekly sessions. Method: Pre- and post-test data from five groups conducted over 2 years were combined for a total of 75 participants. Data were also collected from 69 control group participants. Results: Results indicate completion of the group resulted in a significant decrease on scales from the Eating Disorder Inventory-2 measuring body dissatisfaction and bulimia, as well as an increase on the Social scale of the Multi-dimensional Self-Concept Scale. Conclusion: The results demonstrate mixed support for the Girls' Group prevention program. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.