There's a dangerous new trend called 'Thinspo' that's becoming more popular among young women.

A local health expert is warning parents about it to keep their kids safe.

'Thinspo' is short for the new term 'thinspiration.' It's a movement to push young women to be extremely skinny.

More and more girls are accessing websites that promote this dangerous message.

Many of the sites teach girls to engage in eating disorders to stay thin.

Shirley Cobb is the associate director at JMU's Counseling Center. She says she's not surprised that 'thinspo' is a growing trend.

"It seems like it's also somewhat contagious, when groups of young women get together, whether it's high school or college, no pun intended, it really feeds on itself and it really grows and people want to try it," said Cobb.

Cobb says she helps many students dealing with body image issues.

She says you should watch your kids and friends to make sure they're not going down this path.

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