| Affiliation: | 1. Adrian T Smith, B.A., is Former Research Coordinator, Connell School of Nursing, Boston College;2. Susan Kelly‐Weeder, PhD, FNP‐BC, is Assistant Professor, Connell School Nursing Boston College, Chestnut Hill. Jennifer Engel, BSN, RN, is Clinical Nurse, Children's Hospital;3. Katelyn A. McGowan, BSN, RN, is Clinical Nurse, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Bonnie Anderson, BSN, RN, is Clinical Nurse, Fletcher Allen Healthcare, Burlington, VT. Barbara E. Wolfe, PhD, APRN, FAAN, is Professor, 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. |
