Efficacy of an integrated prevention program for eating disorders and obesity (pia-2) in female adolescents from Argentina

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The study aimed to examine the efficacy of an integrated prevention program for eating disorders and obesity (PIA-2) in female adolescents from Argentina by comparing an experimental group versus a control group. Method: The final sample included 509 girls between 13-18 years old ( M = 15.39 and SD = 1.30) who completed data for three assessment time points: baseline, post-intervention and a 3- month follow-up. The evaluated dependent variables were skipping breakfast, physical activity, eating disorder risk and thin ideal internalization. The program was carried out in three 90- minute sessions within usual school hours, at 1-week intervals. Results: A significant intervention effect was observed in skipping breakfast. Participants who received the intervention decreased more than the control group in skipping breakfast month by month. A significant effect of the intervention was not found on physical activity, eating disorder risk and thin ideal internalization. Discussion: The presence of mixed findings shows the need to adjust the intervention to enhance the results. The importance of working jointly with other Latin American countries is emphasized, in order to promote the growth of the field of prevention, regarding cultural particularities shared by our societies.