BodiMojo: effective Internet-based promotion of positive body image in adolescent girls

Body Image. 2013 Sep;10(4):481-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2013.04.008. Epub 2013 Jun 13.

Abstract

This study tested the efficacy of an Internet-based health promotion program, BodiMojo, designed to promote positive body image in adolescents. Participants were 178 students (mean age 15.2 years, 67.6% ethnic minority) in three public high schools. Intervention groups used BodiMojo for four weekly health class periods, while controls participated in their usual health curriculum. Body image measures were given at baseline, post-intervention, and 3 months. Girls reported decreased body dissatisfaction (p<.05), decreased physical appearance comparison (p<.05), and increased appearance satisfaction (p<.05), relative to controls. Effects were not maintained at 3-month follow-up. No significant differences were found between the intervention and control groups with boys. Moderation analyses suggested positive effects for diverse adolescents as well as those who were overweight or indicated baseline high body dissatisfaction. BodiMojo appears to be modestly effective in decreasing body image concerns among adolescent girls in the short term.

Keywords: Adolescents; Body image; Internet; Prevention; Technology.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Body Image / psychology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Program Evaluation / methods*
  • Self Concept
  • Women's Health*