LIMITATIONS OF STUDY
As this study’s data includes only responses from those colleges that chose to participate, the
data cannot be said to be representative of college campuses generally. There are schools
providing services and programs not listed in the resulting database publication, and infor-
mation about eating disorder–related programs and services on their campus could not be
included in the data collected.
Data was collected via email thereby eliminating direct interaction with subjects. The lead
investigator has completed the Human Subject Training exam through NIH.
IRB approval was granted on 6/9/2010 from
PACE UNIVERSITY INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD
Conclusion
Based on the survey responses we collectedhe study was launched in response to the volume of
found that counseling and therapy services were reported to have the highest importance
and are offered with the most frequency, yet there is still a significant gap in perceived need
and available counseling or nutritional services by staff specializing in eating disorders.
There is a large unmet need for screenings and counseling services for athletes, and eating
disorder screenings for the general student population are evaluated to be very important,
but infrequently available. While colleges are mostly meeting the need of educational ma-
terials about eating disorders in college health service settings (online or in office), campuses
identified that they need to improve or expand training for personnel and student leaders
on campus to educate, detect a problem and refer students to appropriate help.
Given the success at meeting students’ needs, the greatest challenges respondents cited
were limited time and funding for programs or trained staff specializing in eating disorders.
Respondents also cited stigma preventing attendance to outreach events and student use
of services, and lack of student interest in programming. Campuses believe that overall,
programs and services addressing eating disorders are very important, and with increased
funding and staff time dedicated, awareness, prevention and treatment options could better
meet the needs of the student population
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