Testing Mediators of a Couple-based Eating Disorder Prevention Program
Abstract
Body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders are more prevalent in today?s society than ever, making the prevention of eating disorders and its symptoms crucial for women?s health. A couple-based eating disorder prevention program was developed based on the dual pathway model of eating disorders and some efficacy has been established. The current study explored the program?s mechanisms of change by testing mediators (thin ideal internalization and body dissatisfaction) expected to mediate the effects of the program on three outcome variables (dieting, negative affect, and bulimic symptoms). Although none of the mediated paths were significant, results of the study were overall consistent with previous research and provided further support for the efficacy of the prevention program. In addition to these variables, effects of the prevention on relationship variables (relationship satisfaction, attachment anxiety and avoidance, and commitment) were explored. Finally, relationship intimacy, measured by an event-contingent interaction, was found to have an effect on an important eating disorder risk factor. Implications of the present study and future directions for the prevention and treatment of eating disorders are discussed.