"ראשית לא להרע": מה מועיל ומה מזיק במניעת הפרעות אכילה בבתי ספר

In recent decades, the prevalence of eating disorders (EDs), and related symptoms have been increasing in the Western world, including Israel. The etiology is multifactorial, while increased exposure to harmful messages, related to beauty has a significant harmful impact, especially on children and adolescents. Studies have indicated that most prevention programs in schools are ineffective, and some are even harmful. Studies have shown that eating disorders can be influenced by social pressure, friends, family, or media. Therefore,prevention programs have focused on challenging the major risk factors associated with EDs, such as poor body-image, low self-esteem, peer pressure, and media influence. Findings indicated a significant improvement in psychopathology,associated with disturbed eating.This article describes the varies of types of EDs among adolescents, presents the main prevention programs in schools, and highlights programs that may be harmful compared to those found to be effective for middle and high school students.