Evaluating media interventions to improve body image in young children
Dove Self-Esteem Project: Evaluating Effectiveness and Acceptability of Two Positive Body Image Micro-interventions on Young Children's Body Functionality Appreciation, State Body Appreciation and Anti-fat Attitudes
This study is testing if a TV show and a music video can help young children aged 4 to 6 feel better about their bodies and reduce negative feelings about being fat.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 440 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years to 6 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of the West of England Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bristol) |
| Trial ID | NCT06146647 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial aims to assess the effectiveness of two positive body image media interventions—a TV show and a music video—on children aged 4 to 6 years. It will compare these interventions against active control media to determine their impact on children's body functionality appreciation and reduction of anti-fat attitudes. The study will also evaluate the acceptability of these interventions to both children and their parents or guardians. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four conditions, including two intervention groups and two control groups.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 4 to 6 years who are currently in reception or Year 1 of primary school and whose parents or guardians reside in Greater London or the Midlands.
Not a fit: Children with complex special educational needs or those who are not English speaking may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to effective early interventions that promote positive body image and reduce weight stigma in young children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with media-based interventions targeting body image in older children, suggesting potential for similar approaches in younger populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Child is aged 4, 5, or 6 years old 2. Child is currently in reception or Year 1 of primary school 3. The child's parent/guardian resides in Greater London or the Midlands. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Child has complex special educational needs 2. Child is a sibling of a child already recruited into the study 3. Child is not English speaking 4. Child is home-schooled
Where this trial is running
Bristol
- Centre for Appearance Research, UWE — Bristol, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nadia Craddock, PhD — University of the West of England
- Study coordinator: Nadia Craddock, PhD
- Email: nadia.craddock@uwe.ac.uk
- Phone: +441173287924
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.