Abstract
The most empirically supported psychological treatment for eating disorders is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), but there are several difficulties when it comes to its efficacy and access. Recently, a mobile app called GG eating disorders-Adolescents (GGED-AD) was created to complement CBTto help adolescents work on their self-dialogue related to the core beliefs of eating disorders. The objective of this study is to present the protocol for a randomized controlled trial to explore the efficacy of GGED-AD.
Methods: The study will be carried out in adolescents aged 13 to 16 from an educational center in the Valencian Community. The participants will be randomized into two groups: the experimental group will use the GGED-AD app during 14 consecutive days for approximately 5 minutes each day; and the control group will use a neutral app (GGNEUTRAL) during the same time. Both groups will complete instruments that assess dysfunctional beliefs related to eating disorders, eating symptoms, symptoms of depression and anxiety, body satisfaction and self-esteem before and after the intervention. A follow-up will be conducted one month later.
Results: A decrease in the degree of ascription to dysfunctional beliefs associated with eating disorders and eating symptomatology is expected, as well as an increase in body satisfaction and the self-esteem of the participants of the experimental group.
Discussion: The app in this study could help tackle and prevent ED-related symptoms in adolescents.
Trial registration: NCT06039514