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Abstract
Using a cross-sectional, mixed-method design, this study examined the frequency and psychosocial correlates of eating disorder (ED) symptomatology among male figure skaters (n = 29; Mage = 18.45 years) and explored their perspectives on skating-related weight pressures. One participant (3.7%) scored within range of a clinical ED. Body mass index, sport-related weight pressures, and sport-related body dissatisfaction explained 30% of variance in ED symptomatology; only weight pressures were significant. Although most endorsed the positive influences of skating, a perceived body–performance link was their most frequent weight pressure. Coping with sport-related weight pressures should be addressed in applied sport psychology and ED prevention.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Special thanks to Dr. Deborah Feltz; Dr. Tracey Covassin; research assistants Elizabeth Janeiro, Alyssa Newton, and Katherine Griffes; and the figure skating community for making the project possible.
FUNDING
This project was supported by the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports and the College of Education, Michigan State University.