Project VIBE: Virtual Intervention for Binge Eating in Adolescents

Project VIBE tests a mobile app intervention combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies and self-regulation skills to help teenagers who struggle with loss-of-control eating and elevated weight manage their eating behaviors over 16 weeks. Binge and uncontrolled eating in adolescence can lead to lasting physical and mental health consequences, and digital tools may offer a more accessible form of support. Eligible participants are adolescents with a BMI at or above the 75th percentile for their age and sex who report at least 3 episodes of loss-of-control or overeating in the past 3 months, own a smartphone, and are not currently in treatment for an eating or weight disorder; those with bulimia nervosa, diabetes, or developmental delays that would prevent app use are excluded. Participation involves using the VIBE app with coaching for 16 weeks, wearing a FitBit, logging food, and completing assessments at 4 time points over about 6 months. This summary was prepared using AI to help patients understand the study in plain language.