Understanding Behavioral Influences on Eating Disorders and App Engagement to Inform Eating Disorder App Development: Qualitative Online Focus Groups With Adults With Lived Experience

As the first study to apply the COM-B and TDF frameworks to both disordered eating behaviors and app engagement, it identifies previously overlooked behavioral mechanisms and design pitfalls, including how poorly delivered techniques can undermine recovery. It provides a practical blueprint for developing safer, more personalized, and behaviorally effective ED apps. Significant work is needed to advance apps in line with these recommendations, supported by ongoing collaboration with diverse people with lived experience.