2007•DigitalCommons-Macalester (Macalester College)Open access
High School Coaches' Knowledge of Disordered Eating Behavior in Female Athletes
Allison Woerpel
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to discover more about high school coaches' knowledge of disordered eating behavior in female athletes. In a sample of 98 coaches from Minnesota, it was found that the majority of coaches were not familiar with the Female Athlete Triad, a phenomenon describing three interrelated health problems: disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis. However, coaches provided valuable insights regarding how to approach athletes exhibiting signs and symptoms of eating disorders, as well as how to deemphasize the importance of leanness within the athletic environment. Perhaps the most encouraging finding was coaches' overwhelming support of receiving further education on topics related to disordered eating behavior in female athletes. Ultimately, coaches' suggestions in this study will serve as a foundation for creating workshops to better educate coaches on the signs and symptoms of eating disorders as well as the severity of the Triad.
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