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Are adolescents harmed when asked risky weight control behavior and attitude questions? Implications for consent procedures INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS Celio, A. A., Bryson, S., Killen, J. D., Taylor, C. B. 2003; 34 (2): 251-254

Abstract

This study explores whether asking minors about risky weight control behaviors and attitudes increases the frequency of those behaviors and attitudes.Participants were 115 sixth-grade girls who responded to questions on risky weight control behaviors and attitudes at baseline and at 12-month follow-up. An additional 107 girls, who had not been part of the baseline, provided data only at follow-up. The two groups were compared on risky weight control behaviors and attitudes at follow-up using chi-square analyses, Mann-Whitney U tests, Cohen's effect sizes, and odds ratios.No evidence of a negative effect in the twice-assessed group was found. All rates decreased from baseline to follow-up.There is only minimal risk and perhaps even some benefit of asking questions about risky weight control behaviors and attitudes. Implications for determining appropriate consent procedures are discussed.

View details for DOI 10.1002/eat.10188

View details for Web of Science ID 000184510900009

View details for PubMedID 12898562