As You Are has been shaped by a decade of participatory research, allowing us to identify — and respond to — challenges and opportunities faced by young people in their communities.
Our work started with girls and young women in high school and college, a time of increasing risk of body image concerns and disordered eating. Our initial research on The Body Project — a unique, group-based program — showed that peer-led programs make a positive difference for young women.
From this foundation, we worked with young people, researchers, teachers and counselors, and contemplative practice experts to design and study the mind, body, and voice components that make up the As You Are program.
We then studied the impact of this program, engaging high school and emerging adults. Additional research projects paired our researchers with middle school students, Black, Latina and queer youth, as well as parents.
Today, this strong body of evidence backs a well-tested curriculum built to meet young people with what they need, right where and when it matters most.
Research studies focused on the experiences of Latina girls and young women.
Research studies focused on the experiences of middle-school and high-school students.
This research study focuses on the experiences of college student peer facilitators.
