​​WHO MAKES GOOD GROUP LEADERS?

This intervention has been successfully implemented by a variety of individuals with varying levels of clinical training. The ideal group leader candidate can be male or female, and is familiar with dissonance theory, has an understanding of the socio-cultural pressures to be thin that affect women in our culture, and possesses basic therapeutic and empathy skills. Group leaders should carefully read this manual and practice each activity before leading a group, and should be comfortable managing sessions effectively so that material is covered and sessions stay on track. Being able to tactfully interrupt particularly talkative individuals so the group can stay on track is also an important skill.

​WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT OF GROUP PARTICIPANTS?

​There are four 1-hour sessions conducted over consecutive weeks.  In addition, participants are asked to complete brief between session homework assignments.  For facilitators who have scheduling difficulties conducting 60-minute groups, a version of the Body Project presenting the same material over six 45-minute sessions is also provided.  The content is almost identical, with the exception that the six session version contains more home exercises.

​WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO COMPARE/CONTRAST THE THIN-IDEAL VS. THE HEALTHY IDEAL?

Group leaders should explain that with the thin-ideal, people go to extreme measures to look ultra-thin (like a super model) and typically engage in some very unhealthy weight control behaviors (laxative abuse, fasting, cosmetic surgery, excessive exercise).  The goal of the thin-ideal is to attain a thinness that isn’t realistic or healthy, at whatever the cost.  In contrast, with the healthy ideal, the goal is health, fitness, and longevity.  A healthy body has both muscles and adequate fat tissue.  The healthy-ideal involves feeling good about how our body feels and works.  Individuals pursuing the healthy ideal do not engage in unhealthy weight control behaviors.

HOW DO I KEEP PARTICIPANTS ENGAGED DURING THE SESSIONS?

Group leaders should actively engage all participants during each session.  It is important to follow the manual closely and to stay on track, but minimize reading directly from the script.  Knowing the main points of each session will minimize reliance on the script.  Maintain eye contact with participants, call on less involved participants to share their opinions, and systematically go around the group so each participant is involved in the activities.  Interjecting some humor, appearing relaxed, smiling and laughing when appropriate, and listening carefully to participants, helps draw them in.  Making empathetic statements when participants share personal information or difficult situations, is appropriate and desirable, and helps participants feel they have been heard and understood.