Eating disorder symptoms and body image concerns among elite Icelandic gymnasts and their relationship with social media use

Studies have shown that eating disorders (EDs) are more prevalent among athletes than non- athletes, and that social media usage is associated with ED symptoms and body image concerns. The goal of this study was to examine ED symptoms and body image concerns among Icelandic elite gymnasts and their relationship with social media use. Participants were 26 gymnasts of both genders. Participants answered an online questionnaire that included questions on their background, social media usage, ED symptoms, and body image concerns. Results showed that 19.2% scored above the clinical cut-off score for ED symptoms, and 8.3% had moderate concerns with body shape. Females were found to be more dissatisfied with their body than males, but gender differences were not found in ED symptoms. Significant relationship between time spent on social media and ED symptoms or body image concern was not found. Significant differences were found in ED symptoms and body image concerns between additional training time, where those who trained additionally had more symptoms than those who did not. In conclusion, these results imply that EDs and body image concerns can be found among elite Icelandic gymnasts. Future research should emphasize athletes’ mental health and investigate ways it can be improved. Keywords: Eating disorders, body image, social media, sports, gymnastics

Author dc:creator

• Sara Margrét Jóhannesdóttir 1996-

Contributors dc:contributor

• Háskólinn í Reykjavík

• Sálfræði
• Átraskanir
• Líkamsímynd
• Samfélagsmiðlar
• Íþróttir
• Fimleikar
• Psychology
• Eating disorders
• Body image
• Social media
• Sports
• Gymnastics

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1946/39262

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:skemman.is:1946/39262