Life Smart: a pilot study of a school-based program to reduce the risk of both eating disorders and obesity in young adolescent girls and boys

Abstract

Objective: To develop and pilot Life Smart, an eight-lesson program aimed at reducing risk factors for both eating disorders and obesity.

Methods: Grade 7 girls and boys (N = 115) from one independent school were randomly allocated to the Life Smart (two classes; N = 51) or control (three usual classes; N = 64) conditions. Risk factors were measured at baseline and post-program (5 weeks later).

Results: Life Smart was rated as moderately enjoyable and valuable by participants. ANCOVAs with baseline as a covariate revealed a significant main effect for group favoring Life Smart for shape and weight concern (Effect Size [ES] = .54), with post-hoc testing finding girls particularly benefited on this variable (ES = .78).

Conclusions: Feedback was generally favorable, with some suggestions for even more interactive content. The program showed more promise with girls. Informed by these findings, the program underwent revisions and is now being evaluated in a randomized controlled trial.

Keywords: eating disorders; obesity; prevention; risk factors.