About UsThis Web site began at Kenyon College and was the brainchild of a former Pro-Ana/Mia site user and a current researcher. We, at Beyond Ana and Mia, are not here to judge those with eating disorders or those who visit Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites. We are convinced that these sites serve multiple purposes, and that those who visit and use them, genuinely need and deserve the understanding and support that these sites may provide. In this regard, research by Chapman and Krieg (2009) revealed that time spent on Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites was positively and significantly correlated with a need for support and understanding. Our goal in constructing and promoting this Web site is to create a healthier environment that still provides a solid support system to those who need it. We do not require that you be involved in or even ready for recovery, though we do provide information about recovery and readiness to change. Further, we do not require, nor do were personally espouse, a wholesale condemnation of the Pro-Ana/Mia movement, although we are convinced that Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites have many features that are ultimately unhealthy and unproductive. We require only an open mind and a willingness to find support on a site---without thinspiration or diet tips, or the claim that “eating disorders are someone else’s problem because they are a legitimate and desirable lifestyle” Our ultimate mission is to provide a safe place for those with eating disorders to find emotional support, useful information, and ways to creatively express themselves. Essentially we hope to support and encourage those struggling with eating disorders by providing and reinforcing the helpful elements of Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites, without the potentially harmful elements. BiographiesKelsey Chapman is a graduate student at Marshall University in Huntington, WV. A former patron of Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites and former sufferer of an eating disorder, she now conducts research on eating disorders and body image, specifically on Pro-Ana/Mia Web sites. She is a co-founder of the Kenyon College Love Your Body group and the founder and moderator of this Web site. Michael P. Levine, Ph.D., is the Samuel B. Cummings Jr. Professor of Psychology at Kenyon College, where he has taught for 31 years. He is the author and co-author of numerous articles and chapters, as well as several books and curriculum guides, about various topics in the field of body image and disordered eating. His principal interests are prevention and the role of mass media. He is a member of the American Psychological Association and a Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders. DisclaimerThe opinions and statements in this site do not reflect in any way the opinions or views of Kenyon College (the corporate entity) or its Department of Psychology.Though the advice and information given here have been carefully examined and are based as much as possible on sound theory and research, the founders of this site are not certified therapists. Individual treatment needs vary. In keeping with the ethical principles of the American Psychological Association (Michael Levine is a member), people considering treatment as part of their recovery from an eating disorder and/or related conditions (e.g., depression, social anxiety) are strongly encouraged to get a formal evaluation from a person who has considerable experience and expertise in working with eating disorders (see http://www.find-a-therapist.com). |  |