Online Modules for Feeding Disorders

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Penn State University

Disqualifiers: Not primary caregiver, Under 18, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: 1 month

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial tests online modules designed to assist caregivers of children with feeding disorders. The goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of these resources for families in the SNAP-Ed program, which promotes healthy eating. Caregivers may participate if they have a child between 5 and 12 years old and have internet and email access. Primary caregivers who speak English and meet these criteria may find this trial suitable. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could benefit similar families.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What prior data suggests that these online modules are safe for children?

Research has shown that online learning tools, like those in this trial, are usually safe and easy to use. For instance, a study on an online program called PreparED found that it helped people learn more and feel more confident, without any negative effects. This suggests that using online tools to learn about health is generally low-risk.

Although the specific modules in this trial have not been detailed, existing research indicates that online education for caregivers and parents is both effective and safe. Since these modules are part of a well-respected program, the likelihood of any harm is very low. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the use of online modules for treating feeding disorders because they offer a unique, accessible approach that differs from traditional in-person therapy sessions. Unlike conventional treatments that often involve face-to-face interactions with therapists, these online modules provide a flexible, self-paced learning environment that can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This method not only reduces barriers to accessing care but also empowers individuals and families to engage with the material at their own convenience. The potential for broad reach and personalization makes this digital approach an innovative step forward in addressing feeding disorders.

What evidence suggests that these online modules are effective for feeding disorders?

Research has shown that online programs can help improve feeding problems in children. One study found that an online treatment called GSH-FBT worked better and faster than traditional in-person therapy, suggesting that online methods might be more efficient. Another study demonstrated that telesimulation—an online training method—effectively taught how to manage infant feeding. These findings support the idea that online programs, such as the Online Modules tested in this trial, can be a useful tool for addressing feeding disorders. ^{6 7 8 9 10}

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for primary caregivers of children aged 2 to 16 years who are over the age of 18 and speak English. Participants must have reliable internet access and an active email account to use the online modules designed to improve feeding practices.

Inclusion Criteria

English-speaking

Have a reliable internet source and active email account so they can access the online modules

I am the main caregiver for a child aged 2 to 16.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants complete three online modules developed by the Center for Childhood Obesity Research

1 month

Online participation

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for changes in feeding practices through pre/post surveys

1 month

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Online Modules

Trial Overview

The study is evaluating three online educational modules aimed at helping caregivers enhance their responsive feeding practices. These modules were created by experts in childhood obesity prevention for those involved in SNAP-Ed programs.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Receive Online Modules Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

All participants receiving the same online modules intervention.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Penn State University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

380

Recruited

131,000+

Published Research Related to This Trial

A pilot study involving 40 adolescents with anorexia nervosa showed that both the online guided self-help program for parents (GSH-FBT) and videoconferencing family-based treatment (FBT-V) were similarly acceptable and effective in improving weight and parental self-efficacy, with significant improvements maintained at a 3-month follow-up.

GSH-FBT demonstrated a greater efficiency in achieving treatment outcomes compared to FBT-V, suggesting that online interventions may be a more time-effective option for families dealing with anorexia nervosa.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial comparing family-based treatment via videoconferencing and online guided self-help family-based treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa. Lock, J., Couturier, J., Matheson, BE., et al.[2021]

A performance improvement process in a 28-bed ICU led to better patient outcomes by increasing the use of enteral nutrition over parenteral nutrition and starting nutrition support sooner.

The implementation of educational programs and a systematic approach resulted in meeting patients' protein and energy needs, ultimately enhancing nutrition support practices and achieving cost savings for the community hospital.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Enhanced enteral and parenteral nutrition practice and outcomes in an intensive care unit with a hospital-wide performance improvement process. Schwartz, DB.[2019]

Citations

1.

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36364862/

Evaluating Outcome Measure Data for an Intensive ...

These data show that an intensive interdisciplinary home-based program can be successful in treating complex feeding problems in children.

2.

medica-musc.researchcommons.org

medica-musc.researchcommons.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1020&context=muscotd-ppotd

Nourishing Skills: Online Education Materials for the ...

Among therapists surveyed, 80% report no confidence in evaluating feeding needs, and 40% of clinics have no internal training protocol or mentorship. This ...

3.

withpower.com

withpower.com/trial/phase-feeding-behaviors-2-2023-48db1

Online Modules for Feeding Disorders · Info for Participants

GSH-FBT demonstrated a greater efficiency in achieving treatment outcomes compared to FBT-V, suggesting that online interventions may be a more time-effective ...

4.

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9872075/

Development and Pilot Testing of Telesimulation for ...

The aim of this study was to design and pilot test the feasibility of using telesimulation to provide training in infant feeding management.

5.

jeatdisord.biomedcentral.com

jeatdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40337-019-0243-5

Evaluating the effectiveness of an evidence-based online ...

Early detection and treatment are essential to ensuring the best possible health outcomes for people with eating disorders (EDs).

6.

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12281726/

An evaluation of an online education module to improve ...

EDs in pregnancy have been shown to increase the risk of impaired foetal development, low birth weight infants, induced labour, hyperemesis, ...

7.

jeatdisord.biomedcentral.com

jeatdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40337-025-01337-4

An evaluation of an online education module to improve ...

Eating disorders (ED) during pregnancy can pose a significant risk to the health of mothers and infants. The current study evaluated an online ...

8.

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10652638/

Evaluation of an online modular eating disorders training ...

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a free, brief, web-based curriculum, PreparED, in increasing comfort and confidence with, and knowledge about EDs ...

9.

mdpi.com

mdpi.com/2077-0383/9/6/1912

Long-Term Efficacy of the Workshop Vs. Online SUCCEAT ...

We evaluated the efficacy and feasibility of the “Supporting Carers of Children and Adolescents with Eating Disorders in Austria” (SUCCEAT) ...

10.

clinicaltrials.gov

clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03664154

Stress and Feeding (SAFE): A Pilot Intervention for Mothers ...

The second purpose of this study is to examine changes before and after using the intervention on mother and infant outcomes over 16-weeks. Detailed Description.