Ätstörningar inom idrotten
Tränarens inställning och betydelse
PurposeThe purpose with this C-essay is to give a description of disordered eating in sports. Further, I also wanted to make a survey of the knowledge of the trainers and their attitudes to eating disorders within sports. I will bring a good view of the problem. I hope that it will give a wider knowledge, acceptance and understanding for the problem. Hopeful can that making the problem smaller and also making it easier for those who are afflicted, the trainer and other peoples.MethodI have used two methods; a study of previous studies and other information and also a questionnaire. The questionnaire I sent out to 49 Swedish trainers in three different kinds of sports; football, cross-country skiing and gymnastics. All of them are active within youth sports at a high level, both girls and boys. 80% of the questionnaires don?t get back, in spite that a reminding was sent. This I combined with knowledge that I got from others who have been in this situation and also with my own experiences.ResultsThe study shows there are some differences in the eating disorders which affect ?ordinary? people and those which affect sportspeople. The study also shows that it is common with disordered eating in the sport. The biggest problem is that eating disorders isn?t an accepted problem and associated whit a big shame, both the suffered and trainers. There is also a lack of understanding. It was even evident that quite a number of trainers are aware of the problem but unsure what practical steps to take in order to help the afflicted. The trainers also seemed to take the attitude that it was not really their problem.ConclusionThe result shows that this is a big problem which with relatively small means could be limited and reduced. It needs however an increased openness, acceptance and understanding. A wider knowledge is also desirable. I think that could take away the big shame of the problem. It is possible for the trainer to have a big influence. That is also important that the trainers understand that they are important for prevent the problem, observe the persons in an early step and also help.