Pilot Randomized Trial of a Single-Session Online Parent Intervention Targeting Predictors of Body Image Disturbance in Young Children

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a single-session, online, parent-focused intervention aimed at preventing body image concerns and disordered eating in young children aged 2 to 6 years. This study addresses the early recognition of societal appearance ideals by children and the role of parents in shaping their children's exposure to these ideals. The study focuses on reducing predictors of body image disturbance, which are linked to serious mental health issues including eating disorders that have significant psychological and physical impacts. The intervention consists of a modular workshop delivered online to parents, covering four key areas: Body Image Development and Body Talk, Food Talk, Picky Eating and Mealtime Conversations, and Media Usage and Social Comparison. Each module lasts about 10 minutes. In the study, 50 parents will receive the full intervention while another 50 parents in the control group will not receive any intervention but will complete knowledge checks. The study aims to test the acceptability and feasibility of this approach. Participants will complete the intervention modules and then provide feedback on their experience, including which module they found most useful, along with knowledge assessments. Researchers will monitor acceptability immediately after the intervention and track recruitment, retention, and data completeness over approximately one year. The study will also evaluate the initial effectiveness of the intervention directly after completion. Participation involves completing online modules and questionnaires during the study period.

Acceptability and Feasibility of a Single-Session Online Parent-Focused Intervention Targeting Child Body Image Development