Critical Comments About Body Shape and Weight: Disordered Eating of Female Athletes and Sport Participants

Abstract

This investigation explored the role of critical comments about weight and body shape and disordered eating symptoms of female athletes (N = 157) and sport participants (N = 63). Results revealed that both athletes and sport participants who recalled critical comments, compared with those who did not, and those who recalled more severe critical comments, reported greater disordered eating (controlling for depression). Although greater degree of athletic involvement was associated with greater frequency of recalled critical comments, athletes and sport participants did not differ on disordered eating. Consistent with objectification theory, those who recalled critical comments had more intense negative emotions (shame, anxiety) than positive emotions associated with the recalled comment; but not more so for athletes than sports participants.