Understanding the role of healthy eating and fitness mobile apps in the formation of maladaptive eating and exercise behaviours in young people (June 2019)

Summary

Healthy eating and fitness mobile apps are designed to promote healthier living. However, for young people, body dissatisfaction is commonplace, and these types of apps can become a source of maladaptive eating and exercise behaviours. Furthermore, such apps are designed to promote continuous engagement, potentially fostering compulsive behaviours.

This study, published by JMIR Publications, highlights the necessity for careful considerations around the design of apps that promote weight loss or body modification through fitness training, especially when they are used by young people who are vulnerable to the development of poor body image and maladaptive eating and exercise behaviours.