A self-administered computer-based educational program about eating-disorder risk factors

Abstract

Eating disorders among young women are a source of concern for health professionals. The present study trialled an experimental computer‐administered educational program (DIET) dealing with dieting, weight, exercise, and appearance using a nonclinical sample of 25 young women volunteers. The aim was to investigate the effect of health‐promoting information on knowledge and attitudes related to eating disorders. Treatment group subjects were compared with 25 subjects in a control condition. The educational program increased treatment‐group subjects' knowledge of risk factors related to eating disorders but did not significantly change their attitudes. The findings are discussed in relation to possible applications of computer‐based educational programs in health education and treatment.