Cluster Randomised Control Trial of the BodyKind Body Image Programme

Body dissatisfaction, a primary risk factor for eating disorders, is prevalent among adolescents. Given increases in adolescent body dissatisfaction since the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a pressing need for universal body image interventions, particularly for older adolescents aged 15-17 years, as this is a peak time for the onset of adolescent body image concerns; however, currently there are no evidence-based body image programmes for this age group. This cluster randomised control trial will evaluate the effectiveness of BodyKind, a four session, teacher led, mixed gender body image intervention for older adolescents that incorporates empirically supported principles of self-compassion, cognitive dissonance and social justice. The version of BodyKind culturally adapted for the Irish context will be evaluated in adolescents aged 15-17 years in fourth year in post-primary schools in Ireland. Primary outcomes of body dissatisfaction, body appreciation and psychological wellbeing, in addition to secondary outcomes of body ideal internalisation, self-compassion and compassion for others will be assessed at pre, post and 2 month follow up in intervention groups (who receive the BodyKind programme) and waitlist controls.