Restrictive Eating Patterns and Eating Disorder Risk in Female Ballet Dancers: Exploratory Associations with...

While elevated risks of disordered eating attitudes (DEAs) among ballet dancers are well-documented, the underlying organizational and psychosocial factors in their work environment have received less attention. The aim of the present study was to assess the proportion and distinct behavioral patterns of eating disorder (ED) risk among female ballet dancers compared with university students from high-risk disciplines, and to identify workplace stressors associated with clinically relevant ED symptoms.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among professional ballet dancers (n = 117). For comparison, a cohort of higher education students from high-risk disciplines, specifically Medical and Nutritional Sciences as well as Arts (n = 260), was recruited. DEAs were assessed using the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26). Perceived occupational stress among ballet dancers was quantified using the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Indicator Tool.

When applying the screening threshold (EAT-26 ≥ 20), 35.9% of ballet dancers had clinically relevant ED symptoms, notably surpassing student groups (approximately 25%) (p = 0.003). The discriminant function analysis identified distinct ED behavioral profiles. Among students, ED symptoms were predominantly associated with Factor B (Bulimia and Food Preoccupation). In contrast, 49.1% of ballet dancers were classified within the highest risk category for Factor O (Oral Control), indicating rigid dietary restriction. The observed association between perceived occupational stress, specifically related to self-reported workplace bullying (β 3.5, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.1; 7.1, p = 0.049) and possible mobbing (β 4.4, 95% CI: 0.1; 8.7, p = 0.045), and the expression of clinically relevant ED symptomatology among ballet dancers can be conceptualized within a hypothetical socio-neuro-behavioral framework.

The ballet-specific restrictive eating pattern (Factor O) tracks as a potential behavioral coping response to navigate rigid theatrical work environments. Multi-level interventions that address workplace mental health are needed to support healthy eating patterns and metabolic balance among ballet dancers.