A pilot peer-leader eating disorders prevention program for sororities

Abstract

This study assesses a peer-leader intervention for the prevention of eating disorders in sororities. Within a two-group quasi-experimental design, peer leaders were selected from the experimental sororities and trained to advocate no dieting, healthy eating, and exercise and how to make psychotherapy referrals. Three psychotherapy referrals were made. No significant differences were found between experimental and control participants. However, sorority members who participated more fully in the intervention reported better physical condition and trends for less dieting and more exercise self-efficacy.