A Study of Eating Disorders in College Female Athletes

This study examined eating disorders in college female athletes and the knowledge and experience level of coaches on eating disorders in female athletes. Sixty-two female athletes that participated on six different sports teams and thirteen coaches from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke were surveyed. Results indicated that some of the female athletes portrayed behaviors that could indicate the possibility of an eating disorder. Two of the athletes admitted to having an eating disorder in the past and one athlete seemed to have an eating disorder at the present time. Over half of the coaches reported that they have been educated on and are adequately knowledgeable about eating disorders in college females athletes. Colleges and universities must take responsibility and assist their employees to conduct their athletic programs in a manner that recognizes the importance of the athlete's health and safety. Recognition of eating disorders, intervention and treatment plans should be established, as well as preventative education programs. To assist in this process, an eating disorder protocol was developed. Approaching this type of complex situation in this manner can contribute to identifying, treating, and possibly saving the life of an athlete with an eating disorder.