Youth Programs

The Body Project:
Promoting Body Acceptance & Preventing Eating Disorders

The Body Project is an evidence-based program for high school girls. Developed by Eric Stice, PhD, this eating disorder prevention program is based on a cognitive dissonance intervention model. Dissonance theory suggests that if people are induced to act in a way that is inconsistent with their initial attitudes, it produces psychological discomfort, which leads them to change their attitudes and behaviors. Previous prevention programs that focus on providing information on the adverse effects of eating disorders have produced little to no improvements. The Body Project, instead, takes an alternative approach of engaging participants to critique the unrealistic, ultra “thin ideal.” After more than 16 years of research, participation in this program has been shown to reduce “thin ideal” internalization, body dissatisfaction, negative mood, unhealthy dieting and eating disorder symptoms.

We welcome the opportunity to bring the Body Project to your student group or organization.

If you are interested in bringing The Body Project to your school, camp, community center or afterschool program, please e-mail info@achancetoheal.org.