Outcomes of a cluster randomised control trial of Be Real’s BodyKind; A universal body image programme for adolescents in Ireland

Body image has a key impact on adolescent mental health. Yet there are few evidence-based interventions for older adolescents (aged 14 + years). This study evaluated the effectiveness of Be Real’s BodyKind, a strengths-focused, gender-inclusive programme, culturally adapted for older adolescents in Ireland, which combines empirically-supported principles of cognitive dissonance, self-compassion, compassion for others, and social activism to support positive body image. Twenty-three second-level schools in Ireland participated in a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial. Overall, 1099 students (612 girls, 460 boys, 27 gender minority students) in Transition (4th) Year aged 15–16 years (M=15.4, SD=.5) were randomly assigned to receive the 4-session intervention delivered by teachers (n = 630) or waitlist control (n = 469). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and 2-month follow-up. Significant improvements in the main outcome of body appreciation (p = .03, d=.17) were observed at post-intervention. Girls demonstrated higher levels of body appreciation at post-intervention, and self-compassion at follow-up, but not boys. No significant changes in body satisfaction, psychological wellbeing, body ideal internalisation, compassion for others or social activism were observed. Findings indicate that girls may experience brief gains in body appreciation, but refining the programme and optimising implementation may be warranted to enhance programme impact, particularly in boys.