Abstract

REYES-RODRIGUEZ, Mae Lynn et al. Development of fotonovelas to raise awareness of eating disorders in Latinos in the United States. Rev. Mex. de trastor. aliment [online]. 2016, vol.7, n.1, pp.17-23. ISSN 2007-1523.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmta.2016.03.002.

The aim of this study was to develop fotonovelas , a popular type of graphic novel in the Latino population, to raise awareness and educate about eating disorders (EDs). Four illustrated cartoons and scripts tailored for adults and adolescents of both sexes were presented in focus groups and an in-depth interview. Seventeen Latino adults (14 females; 3 males) and 10 adolescents (9 females; 1 male) participated in the study. Participants found the fotonovelas interesting, and eye-catching than traditional brochures. The use of Spanglish and clarification of differences across EDs were suggested by adolescent females. Male adults suggested changing the title to focus on the health consequences of EDs in order to catch the male attention in reading the story. Based on the receptivity we found in this study, fotonovela could be a promising avenue to raise awareness and to educate the Latino community in the United States about EDs.

Keywords : Fotonovela; Eating disorders; Prevention; Latinos; Awareness.