Project 467027

Emotional eating involves overeating in response to negative emotions, which can lead to unhealthy dietary habits and poor physical health. Several studies have looked at how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, a therapy that promotes acceptance of negative emotions, mindfulness (i.e., awareness of the present moment), and acting in line with ones personal values, can improve emotional eating. However, very few studies have focused on using this therapy to help with emotional eating in adolescents. This is problematic as obesity in childhood and adolescence is becoming a major public health concern. Additionally, unhealthy dietary habits during this period is linked to short-term and long-term health consequences. This study will test an app that will teach a meditation exercise based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to guide adolescents when they feel the need to eat in response to negative emotions. The app will contain age-appropriate visuals and language, as well as game elements to engage adolescents. This study will enhance our understanding of how an app specifically adapted for adolescents can improve emotional eating. This knowledge can help us improve adolescents physical and mental health.