Integrative Approaches to the Prevention of Eating Disorders and Obesity in Youth

Abstract

AbstractAbstract Both eating disorders and obesity are serious public health concerns. Given the chronic course of these conditions, there is a major emphasis on their prevention. However, many concerns have been raised about the optimal approach to the prevention of both eating disorders and obesity. This chapter reviews controversies in the prevention of eating disorders and obesity, including potential iatrogenic effects of prevention, and whether programming should be implemented at the level of public policy. Next, we review the debate regarding the integration of prevention efforts for these conditions, including the feasibility and acceptability of these integrated approaches. The chapter continues with a brief review of some of the best practices for the integrated prevention of both obesity and eating disorders identified in previous research. Finally, we discuss newer perspectives in this research, including broadening targets of prevention, integrating technology, and enhancing the cultural sensitivity of eating disorder and obesity prevention.