Source
Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The purpose of this study was to examine the accessibility and content quality of eating disorder websites.
METHODS:
A descriptive, exploratory study using four search engines and seven search terms was conducted to identify and evaluate the accuracy of eating disorder information available on consumer oriented websites.
FINDINGS:
One hundred fifteen (82.1%) websites were accessed. Few sites fully described the DSM diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa (13.2%), bulimia nervosa (15.8%), eating disorder not otherwise specified (6.9%), and binge eating disorder (8%), as well as associated treatment options.
CONCLUSIONS:
Results suggest that eating disorder websites do not adequately address diagnostic criteria or treatment options.
© 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.