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1Department of Counseling, Human Development, and Educational Leadership, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043, USA. levittd@mail.montclair.edu
Eating Disorders
|September 30, 2008
Summary
College students engaging in recreational activities showed more negative attitudes toward eating and exercise compared to those in organized sports. This highlights potential risks for disordered eating behaviors in certain athletic populations.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Eating disorders are a significant concern in college populations.
- Athletic and exercise participation may influence disordered eating attitudes and behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between athletic/exercise activities and eating disordered behavior in college students.
- To differentiate the impact of recreational versus organized sports on these behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 853 undergraduate students.
- Utilized the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26).
- Assessed participation in various athletic and exercise activities.
Main Results:
- Recreational activity participation was associated with more negative attitudes regarding diet and exercise.
- Organized sports involvement showed a different, less detrimental, association.
Conclusions:
- Recreational exercise may pose a higher risk for disordered eating attitudes in college students.
- Findings inform targeted prevention and counseling strategies for at-risk student groups.
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