Disordered eating, body image concerns, and weight control behaviors in primary school aged children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of universal–selective prevention interventions

<p dir="ltr">Objective: Body image concerns and extreme weight control behaviors frequently develop in childhood indicating an important age group for the implementation of universal–selective prevention approaches. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of universal–selective prevention interventions addressing disordered eating, body image concerns, and/or extreme weight control behaviors in children aged 6–12 years. </p><p dir="ltr">Method: Nine databases were searched up to April 2021. Studies were included if they delivered a universal–selective prevention intervention to children aged 6–12 years and reported outcomes relating to body image, disordered eating, or weight control behaviors. The review was conducted in line with the PRISMA Guidelines. </p><p dir="ltr">Results: A total of 42 articles describing 39 studies included in the review, with most (n = 24; 57%) classified as neutral quality. Thirty studies implemented an eating disorder specific universal–selective program and nine implemented lifestyle interventions plus content to address disordered eating risk factors. Meta-analysis (n = 16 studies) revealed an improvement in body image-related outcomes across all studies (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.26 [95%CI 0.01, 0.51]); with a high level of heterogeneity (Î2 = 89.9%; p <.01). Meta-analysis according to gender revealed a general improvement in body image-related outcomes for girls (SMD 0.40 [95%CI 0.07, 0.73]), but not boys (SMD 0.23 [95%CI −0.24, 0.70]). </p><p dir="ltr">Discussion: By investigating child, parental and teaching interventions and including outcomes such as weight control and disordered eating behaviors, a trend toward a reduction in eating disorder risk factors was observed, particularly body image-related outomes in girls. Future directions include embedded disordered eating prevention materials within existing lifestyle interventions and inclusion of more diverse samples.</p>