Using the PRECEDE Model for Causal Analysis of Bulimic Tendencies among Elite Women Swimmers

Abstract

Although swimmers have been identified as a risk group for eating disorders, little research has focused on highly competitive swimmers. This study examines contributors to pathogenic weight control techniques and bulimic tendencies among elite female swimmers. Responses were obtained from 298 female participants at a recent U.S. Olympic Swimming Selection Meet. Instrument construction and data analysis were guided by the PRECEDE model, a theoretical framework of causal relations predicting health outcomes. Results demonstrate that drive for thinness, body dissatisfaction, difficulty in recognizing internal states, and public weighing or measuring influence the use of unhealthy weight control techniques. Concern with being thin and lack of awareness of emotional and physical states also contribute to bulimic tendencies, as do weight/percent fat measured at practice, being told to lose weight, guilt about weight gain, and pathogenic weight control methods. The explanatory power of the PRECEDE model is discussed, along with implications for swimmers and coaches.