Psychological and Social Factors Influencing Eating Behaviors in College Athletes

Sefa Bulut; Mehdi Rostami; Jamel Hajji; Sergii Boltivets; Nadereh Saadati; Jiantang Yang; Maura McDonnell; Chidinma Chikwe; Erwin A.  William

doi:10.61838/kman.hn.2.1.11

Authors

Sefa Bulut Department of Counseling Psychology & Head of the Counseling Center, Ibn Haldun University, Istanbul, Turkey Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2622-4390
Mehdi Rostami Department of Psychology and Counseling, KMAN Research Institute, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada | Rehabilitation Department, York Rehab Clinic, Toronto, Canada Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9536-5309
Jamel Hajji Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Gafsa, University of Gafsa, Tunisia Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9991-0025
Sergii Boltivets Chief Researcher of the Department of Scientific Support of Social Formation of Youth. Mykhailo Drahomanov University, Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4432-5272
Nadereh Saadati Department of Psychology and Counseling, KMAN Research Institute, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada | Rehabilitation Department, York Rehab Clinic, Toronto, Canada Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6105-8378
Jiantang Yang Coventry University London–University House, UK | Department of Psychology and Counseling, KMAN Research Institute, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9067-3632
Maura McDonnell Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota,Minneapolis, MN, USA Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7339-941X
Chidinma Chikwe Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Canada Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0365-6251
Erwin A. William Department of Counseling and Psychology, University of the Philippines Manila, USA Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9067-3632

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61838/kman.hn.2.1.11

Abstract

Eating behaviors among college athletes are influenced by a complex interplay of psychological, social, and nutritional factors, which can significantly impact their health and performance. This study aims to elucidate these multifaceted influences, providing a deeper understanding of the factors that shape eating behaviors in collegiate sports environments. This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with 30 collegiate athletes from various sports disciplines across several universities. Theoretical saturation guided the data collection process until no new themes emerged. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using NVivo software to conduct thematic analysis, focusing on identifying patterns related to psychological drivers, social influences, and nutritional knowledge. Three main themes were identified: Psychological Drivers, Social Influences, and Nutritional Knowledge. Psychological Drivers included Emotional Eating, Dietary Attitudes, and Motivation to Eat Well. Social Influences encompassed Peer Dynamics, Family Influence, Coaching Guidance, and Social Media Impact. Nutritional Knowledge was characterized by Understanding of Nutrition, Sources of Information, and Dietary Planning. Each theme and its categories were supported by specific concepts illustrating the complex and interconnected factors influencing athletes' eating behaviors. The study highlighted the significant role of psychological and social factors alongside nutritional knowledge in shaping the eating behaviors of college athletes. Interventions aimed at improving athletes' eating behaviors should consider these dimensions to effectively support athletes in managing their dietary habits in a way that promotes both optimal performance and general well-being.