The Role Of Athlete Support Teams In The Development And Treatment Of REDS In Female University Endurance

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dc.contributor.advisorErickson, Karl
dc.contributor.authorTeschuk, Erin Elizabeth
dc.date.accessioned2025-04-10T10:41:26Z
dc.date.available2025-04-10T10:41:26Z
dc.date.copyright2024-08-22
dc.date.issued2025-04-10
dc.date.updated2025-04-10T10:41:26Z
dc.degree.disciplineKinesiology & Health Science
dc.degree.levelMaster's
dc.degree.nameMA - Master of Arts
dc.description.abstractObjective: Relative energy deficiency in sports (REDs) results from chronically low energy availability (when calories consumed cannot support calories expended) and is known to affect athletes' health and performance – particularly female athletes in endurance and aesthetic sports. University programs and support staff (coaches, physiotherapist, dietitians etc.) can profoundly impact athlete health behaviours both positively and negatively. Therefore, it is critical to examine how support staff may impact the development and management of REDs, specifically in high-risk populations. Methodology: This study employed a mixed-method design (network analysis followed by qualitative interviews) with 20 female USport cross country athletes to explore: 1) what support staff are available for female USports cross country athletes and 2) athletes' perspectives on how their support system relates to the prevention and management of REDs. Results: Results indicate that culture around REDs is positively shifting, however, there is still a need for greater awareness and open dialogue about REDs and symptoms. Athlete comfort around discussing REDs depends on their relationship with support team members, support staff’s expressed openness to discuss REDs, and perceived knowledge and experience of support staff. Additionally, athletes tend to be more comfortable discussing REDs with female staff members - particularly when a strong relationship does not exist. Barriers to athlete disclosure of REDs symptoms include prioritization of immediate performance and stigma associated with disordered eating. University athletic departments should create environments that emphasize interdisciplinary support, and open dialogue around REDs, emphasizing the long-term performance and health detriments associated with it.
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/10315/42743
dc.languageen
dc.rightsAuthor owns copyright, except where explicitly noted. Please contact the author directly with licensing requests.
dc.subject.keywordsSport psychology
dc.subject.keywordsFemale athletes
dc.subject.keywordsRelative energy deficiency in sport
dc.subject.keywordsSupport staff
dc.subject.keywordsAthletics
dc.subject.keywordsEndurance sport
dc.subject.keywordsAthlete health and development
dc.titleThe Role Of Athlete Support Teams In The Development And Treatment Of REDS In Female University Endurance
dc.typeElectronic Thesis or Dissertation

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