Body Image

Body image has been conceptualized as a social construct that differs based on contexts and experiences with gender socialization (Cash, The´riault, & Annis, 2004). American society’s conception of femininity as body- based has important implications for body im- age attitudes and behaviors. Cultural standards of femininity–particularly the dominant images of thin bodies– have been found to impact female college students’ body image attitudes and influenced their behaviors related to disordered eating (Leavy, Gnong, & Ross, 2009). Mahalik et al. (2005a) found similar results in which conforming to traditional feminine norms of the dominant culture, especially appearance-related norms, were related to body dissatisfaction and engagement in weight control behaviors among female college students. Lastly, Green et al. (2008) found that female college students who endorsed traditional feminine norms that emphasize thinness were most at risk for developing disordered eating symptomology. The pressures to conform to cultural standards and achieve femininity seem to contribute to appearance-driven attitudes and body shape issues.
When assessing risks for disordered eating, it is important to consider body dissatisfaction as it relates to perceived incompatibility between a sport body and the cultural ideal. Parsons and Betz (2001) reported that more extensive participation in athletics, especially in sports emphasizing femininity and appearance, was related to a stronger concern and potential for feeling shame if the female body did not meet cultural standards. Smolak, Murnen, and Ruble (2000) concluded from their meta-analysis of 34 studies that athletes were more at risk for disordered eating then nonathletes. Elite athletes, especially in sports emphasizing thinness, were found to be most at risk for developing eating problems. Additionally, body image and feelings of concern may become an even greater stress within sport when revealing uniforms expose female athletes’ bodies in front of spectators. Athletes who recalled critical comments by significant others (e.g., coach, family) related to weight or body shape also reported greater dis- order eating patterns (Muscat & Long, 2008). Thus, the sport environment, especially aesthetic sports and those that use more revealing uniforms, may pose a unique risk for body esteem issues and disordered eating due to frequent exposure and stress related to body shape, weight pressures, and diet (Hausenblas & Carron, 1999; Krane et al., 2004; Leung, Geller, & Katzman, 1996).