Body Image, Maturation, and Psychological Functioning in College Cheerleaders: A Matter of Position?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined body image correlates of disordered eating and depression among cheerleaders. Female collegiate cheerleaders (N = 243) completed a battery of surveys, including current and ideal body image related to clothing (i.e., daily clothing, midriff, and full uniform) and meta-perceptions (i.e., perspectives of parents, friends, and coaches). For body image dissatisfaction, all ideal body images were significantly smaller than current body images. Flyers that were significantly shorter and lighter had a lower body mass index and were later maturing, and they reported less dissatisfaction related to daily clothing and from the perspective of parent and friend than bases and back spots. After controlling for body mass index (4%), stepwise regression analyses indicated midriff uniform dissatisfaction (32%), social physique anxiety (6%), and parent meta-perception discrepancy (2%), which predicted disordered eating risk, whereas depression risk was predicted by social physique anxiety (19.1%) and coach meta-perception discrepancy (5.6%). In conclusion, specific focal points for social agents and sport governing bodies are offered with the goal of enhancing recognition, opportunities, and resources for the future of cheerleading.