Table 2 Summary of effect sizes and patient experiences with hybrid and fully online interventions for the treatment of eating disorders in youth
From: The use of technology in the treatment of youth with eating disorders: A scoping review
| Â | Total # of studies | # of quantitative studies | # of qualitative/mixed studies | Effect size | Summary of patient experiences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hybrid | Â | Â | Â | Â | Â |
Videoconferencing | 3 | 1 | 2* | Large (r = .50) | Treatment satisfaction similar for in-person and online Some voiced concerns for therapeutic relation and had preference for in-person care |
Mobile apps | 5 | 3 | 2 | Small to moderate (d = .09 to .41) | Useful, easy-to-use tool Individual experience dependent on context of use Experience could be improved by increasing flexibility of features, ability to personalize app, and by including motivational/interactive components |
Internet self-help | 1 | 1 | 0 | Large (Δη2 = 0.59) | – |
Fully online | Â | Â | Â | Â | Â |
Videoconferencing | 9 | 2 | 10* (including 2 case studies) | Medium to large (d = .53 to 1.51) | Can lead to improvements in eating disorder symptoms Accessibility, convenience especially appreciated by parents. More useful for motivated families Relational disconnect, technological barriers reported Concerns for confidentiality if limited private space at home In-person treatment preferred |
Mobile apps | 2 | 0 | 3 (including 1 case study) | – | Apps informative and acceptable for patients, clinicians Support from clinician appreciated but privacy concerns when sharing information Would appreciate more personalization, multimedia elements Patients more willing to use well-known apps, those recommended by clinicians |
Internet self-help | 11 | 10 | 1 | Small to large (d = .16 to 1.28) | Rated as relevant, effective, and convenient by participants Email support essential source of motivation, though many wanted more support and other forms (in-person, phone calls) as self-motivation was difficult |