Evaluating User Perspective on a Mindfulness Based- Intervention for Improving Risk and Protective Factors of Disordered Eating: A Person- Based Approach.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate a brief digital mindfulness intervention designed to target body image and eating disorder risk factors among young adults aged 16-34, as part of a wider mixed methods research taking a person-based approach during the development of a digital mindfulness-based intervention. Method: A person-based approach was used involving think-aloud interviews and semi-structured interviews with 10 participants (5 Male, 5 Female) (mean age=26.5, SD=5.68) without current eating disorders. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-phase approach. Results: Three main themes emerged - usability, acceptability, and feasibility of the tailored mindfulness program. Participants found the content clear, simple, coherent and engaging. They reported increased self-awareness and more adaptive thought patterns, indicating acceptability. All participants intended to continue practicing the techniques, reflecting feasibility. However, participants also mentioned practical challenges in maintaining focus during the mindfulness practices. The table of changes created after the first set of interviews allowed incorporation of modifications to address issues like reducing long pauses and adding more guidance during exercises based on initial user feedback. Discussion: While an expanded trial is warranted, findings provide initial evidence that accessible, tailored digital mindfulness tools can successfully engage youth and cultivate protective skills relevant to body image and disordered eating prevention. Further research into optimized blended digital mindfulness interventions is needed as an engaging early prevention approach for escalating mental health risks among young people. The digital format enables scalable delivery on platforms youth already access. Keywords: digital mindfulness-based intervention, person- based approach, disordered eating, young adults, prevention.