Plateau, Carolyn R., Arcelus, Jon, McDermott, Hilary J. and Meyer, Caroline (2015) Responses of track and field coaches to athletes with eating problems. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 25 (2). e240-e250. doi:10.1111/sms.12286 ISSN 0905-7188.

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore how track and field coaches respond to athletes with eating problems. Eleven experienced coaches participated in semi-structured interviews exploring their responses to, and challenges faced when, working with athletes with eating problems. The analysis revealed three themes relating to the strategies employed by coaches. The first theme indicated a supportive approach, where coaches were proactive in seeking support and in reducing training at the early stages of an eating problem. The second theme outlined an avoidant approach, characterized by coach reluctance to be involved in managing eating problems, and a lack of confidence in their knowledge of eating disorders. The third theme involved a confrontational approach, where coaches employed strict rules and engaged in coercion to persuade athletes to seek treatment. All of the coaches reported facing challenges in persuading athletes to seek treatment and were frustrated by the lack of available support. The study highlights the importance of providing resources and support services where coaches can seek advice. Coach-education packages can utilize the findings to highlight the strengths and limitations of different coach strategies, and to reinforce the importance of their role in identification and intervention when eating problems in athletes are suspected.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	T Technology > TX Home economics
Divisions:	Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine > Engineering > WMG (Formerly the Warwick Manufacturing Group)
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Eating disorders, Athletes -- Nutrition, Coaches (Athletics)
Journal or Publication Title:	Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
Publisher:	Wiley-Blackwell Publishing, Inc.
ISSN:	0905-7188
Official Date:	April 2015
Dates:	Date Event April 2015 Published 2 July 2014 Available 3 June 2014 Accepted UNSPECIFIED Submitted
Volume:	25
Number:	2
Number of Pages:	11
Page Range:	e240-e250
DOI:	10.1111/sms.12286
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access
Date of first compliant deposit:	31 December 2015
Date of first compliant Open Access:	29 May 2016

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