September Summary and Recommendations for Future Practice

Question 1

As a whole, the DI journal group agrees that photo based social media, increases the exposure to “thin ideal” photos, influencing the increase of eating concerns.  While it may be impossible to avoid “thin ideal” images when using any form of social media, several participants commented that changing how we label images may improve body image portrayed in social media, such as the natural beauty movement.  Based on the responses, as future practicing RDs, it is recommended that we strive to promote labeling that is healthy, while dispelling food and appearance myths.    

Question 2

One suggestion that several participants commended on was using statistics about the association between media use and eating concern as a part of the eating concern/disorder prevention message.  Other comments included focusing on individuality by emphasizing that there is not a single ideal body type/shape that we all must fit.  In future practice, the DI journal club recommends that community RDs fist need to understand their target audience (as part of a program justification) before they can develop and implement an effective eating disorder prevention campaign that applies to a broad population.

Question 3

Several participants commended that when working with a client with an eating concern/disorder in the future, they would address the association between social media use and disordered eating but it would not be the focus of the counseling.  Participants also commended that the association might result in counseling that focuses on the individual and their triggers, removing/limiting social media exposure, or promoting the diversity of the human form.   Additionally, it was mentioned that counseling an individual with an eating disorder is multifaceted and may be outside the scope of one’s practice.   This point addressed that, as future practicing RDs, in some cases providing effective care may require refereeing a client to a specialized healthcare provider.