A Single-Case Study of Experience of Disordered Eating Influenced by a Track and Field Talent Development Environment

Abstract

The study provides an interpretation of a young woman’s experience of being in a track and field environment in relation to the early stages of disordered eating and anxiety symptoms. The study shows the process of an intake interview with a potential client and the subsequent interpretation of the stories told. We designed the study as a single-case study and conducted one narrative interview with an 18-year-old woman. The findings were analyzed using narrative analysis and communicated using creative nonfiction. Anna’s story shows how she experiences being labeled as a “talent” in her sport and how she struggles with living up to the values and goals of others in the sports environment. Based on the narrative, we chose to interpret Anna’s experience using existential psychology; focusing on authenticity and loneliness, which seemed to exacerbate comorbid anxiety symptoms. The implication of our findings is that support in dealing with body issues and performance should involve guidance on how young athletes make choices and consciously consider their personal development. And sport psychologist can use the current study to guide how they interpret an intake interview.