Review of smartphone applications for the treatment of eating disorders
Adrienne S Juarascio, Stephanie M Manasse, Stephanie P Goldstein, Evan M Forman, Meghan L Butryn, Adrienne S Juarascio, Stephanie M Manasse, Stephanie P Goldstein, Evan M Forman, Meghan L Butryn
Abstract
mHealth tools may be a feasible modality for delivering evidence-based treatments and principles (EBPs), and may enhance treatment for eating disorders (EDs). However, research on the efficacy of mHealth tools for EDs and the extent to which they include EBPs is lacking. The current study sought to (i) review existing apps for EDs, (ii) determine the extent to which available treatment apps utilize EBPs, and (iii) assess the degree to which existing smartphone apps utilize recent advances in smartphone technology. Overall, existing ED intervention apps contained minimal EBPs and failed to incorporate smartphone capabilities. For smartphone apps to be a feasible and effective ED treatment modality, it may be useful for creators to begin taking utilizing the abilities that set smartphones apart from in-person treatment while incorporating EBPs. Before mHealth tools are incorporated into treatments for EDs, it is necessary that the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy be evaluated.
Keywords: cognitive behavioral therapy; psychological therapies; smartphone applications; technology; treatment.
Conflict of interest statement
Conflicts of interest
The authors do not have any conflicts of interest.
Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Source: PubMed