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This research aims to assess the impact of animated storytelling videos on body image dissatisfaction among adolescents.

May 31, 2026Trials0 citationsOpen Access

Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of animated storytelling videos in reducing body image dissatisfaction among adolescents

LLLi Liu JYJianning Yang FTFengmei Tan

Key Points

This research aims to assess the impact of animated storytelling videos on body image dissatisfaction among adolescents.
Randomized controlled trial with two arms: intervention and control groups.
Adolescents aged 15–19 years will be recruited and screened for body image dissatisfaction.
Intervention includes animated storytelling videos over three weeks, with evaluations at multiple time points.
Primary outcome shows improvement in body image satisfaction post-intervention in the intervention group compared to control.
Secondary outcomes include reductions in appearance anxiety and increases in self-esteem, indicating positive intervention effects.

Abstract

Body image dissatisfaction is a concern that affects individuals of all ages, particularly adolescents. Research has demonstrated that such dissatisfaction can lead to a range of psychological and behavioural issues. In China, societal beauty standards often emphasize ideals such as “thinness as beauty” and “fair skin covering a hundred flaws,” which contribute to widespread body image dissatisfaction. There is a notable lack of effective, adolescent-friendly interventions that can be widely implemented in China. This project presents a protocol for a program designed to promote a positive body image among adolescents. A two-armed randomised controlled trial is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Body-Bright Program. Adolescents aged 15–19 years, recruited through posters, were screened for body image dissatisfaction and then allocated to either the intervention group or the control group. Participants in the intervention group will receive the Body-Bright Program, which includes an animated storytelling video lasting 3–4 min, followed by guided discussions and a homework assignment of diary writing. Participants in the control group watch animations unrelated to body image. The intervention is conducted weekly at school by two licensed psychologists over 3 weeks. The primary outcome is body image satisfaction, and the secondary outcomes include appearance comparison, self-esteem, appearance anxiety, and media influence. These outcomes are evaluated at four time points: pre-test, post-test, and follow-ups at 1 month and 3 months. This research aims to develop evidence-based animated storytelling videos for addressing body image dissatisfaction, providing support for interventions that are accessible, scalable, and cost-effective. The Body-Bright Program will be shared with psychologists, teachers, and parents, as well as communicated to the public and health organizations responsible for recommending treatments and establishing mental health guidelines for adolescents. This trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2500102732; www.chictr.org.cn; Registration Date 19th May 2025).

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