About the workshop
Backed by two decades of research and evaluation data, NOED is a 100% virtual, group-based body acceptance program that empowers women and girls to confront unrealistic beauty ideals. The basis for the program is that when girls and young women voluntarily participate in group-based verbal, written, and behavioral exercises against unrealistic beauty ideals, they believe less in the ideals, which results in decreased risk factors and symptoms.
Four digital sessions
1 hour / week over 4 consecutive weeks. You will learn about the appearance ideal, participate in role-play, and come up with more positive ways of thinking and talking about bodies.
Likeminded cohort
You will be paired with 6 - 8 fellow girls and young women who will join you on your journey. Together you will learn to resist the cultural pressure to conform to the thin-ideal standard of female beauty.
Trained facilitators
Learn from highly trained faciliators from trusted institutions, such as Stanford University. Join them from the comfort of your own home via Zoom or another virtual video chat.
About the sessions
First session
The focus of session 1 is to provide an overview and introduce participants to the rules and expectations of the group. The session is largely interactive with discussions of the definition and origins of the appearance ideal, and costs associated with pursuing the appearance ideal. The importance of attendance and completing the home exercises is emphasized.
Second session
The focus of session 2 is to review the materials discussed in the previous session and discuss reactions to the two home assignments. Additionally, this session involves role-plays in which group participants talk the facilitators out of pursuing the thin ideal and engaging in disordered eating behaviors.
Third session
The focus of session 3 is to further discuss how to resist the appearance ideal, how to challenge personal body-related concerns, and how to respond to future pressures to be thin. Role-plays are also used so participants can practice making statements that re-direct body bashing or diet talk.
Fourth session
The focus of session 4 is to discuss participants’ experiences with the behavioral challenge and body activism exercises, and to discuss how the ways in which we talk about our bodies may promote the appearance ideal. This final session focuses on having participants come up with more positive alternative ways of talking about their bodies and encouraging participants to continue to challenge their body image issues in the future.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits?
What is the difference between NOED and The Body Project?
Does it really work?
What is the expected time commitment?
Who is behind NOED + The Body Project?
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