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Research Article
Investigating the impact of pro-anorexia websites: a pilot study
Article first published online: 26 JUN 2006
DOI: 10.1002/erv.714
Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. and Eating Disorders Association
1099-0968/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=d3ecd27ef696cb2a87efb151cc1463c0730e3a0d "European Eating Disorders Review")
Additional Information
How to Cite
Bardone-Cone, A. M. and Cass, K. M. (2006), Investigating the impact of pro-anorexia websites: a pilot study. European Eating Disorders Review, 14: 256–262. doi: 10.1002/erv.714
Publication History
- Issue published online: 17 JUL 2006
- Article first published online: 26 JUN 2006
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- media;
- pro-anorexia;
- self-esteem;
- negative affect;
- body image
Abstract
Objective
This pilot study examined the affective and cognitive consequences of exposure to a pro-anorexia website.
Method
Young women (N=24) were randomly assigned to view one of three websites created by the investigators: a prototypical pro-anorexia website, a website about female fashion using average-sized models, or an appearance-neutral website about home décor. Participants completed a set of questionnaires assessing mood and cognitions pre- and post-website.
Results
Trends indicated that women who viewed the pro-anorexia website decreased in self-esteem, appearance self-efficacy, and perceived attractiveness, and increased in negative affect and perception of being overweight. This pattern was not found among women who viewed the control websites.
Discussion
Preliminary data suggest that viewing pro-anorexia websites has negative affective and cognitive effects on young women. Future directions are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.