ABSTRACT
Objective of review. This chapter reviews recent publications and “in press” manuscripts pertaining to prevention of eating disorders. Based on a continuum model of prevention, we categorize programs as “universal-selective” (intended for very large groups of people, including some who are at risk by virtue of age and developmental stage) or “selective-targeted” (intended for relatively small groups of people who are at moderate to high risk because they have clear precursors, for example a negative body image or mild symptoms).
Summary of recent findings. For girls, the new universal-selective programs with ecological components can create sustained reductions in several key risk factors without doing harm. These programs should include messages that challenge media ideals and social comparison processes. Various forms of selective-targeted interventions for adolescent girls and young women produce meaningful, sustained improvements in risk factors and symptom levels.
Future directions. The field needs more multidimensional universal-selective programs like those with demonstrated efficacy and effectiveness in preventing drug use and pregnancy. We also need to study the effectiveness of targeted prevention, particularly with various ethnic and socioeconomic groups. There is also support for efforts to integrate prevention of eating disorders with prevention of obesity.
