Exploring Adolescents’ Experiences Navigating the Intersection of Their Gender, Sport, and Dietary Identities: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study

By:
Alysha L. Deslippe, Georgia Middleton, Olivia Y. Wu, Coralie Bergeron, Tamara R. Cohen
Date:
2024
Resource type:
Blogs/news/opinion
Link:

This study explores how high school adolescents navigate gender, sports, and dietary identities through 33 interviews with athletes and non-athletes. It highlights three themes: de-gendering protein and muscles, food as a value display, and conflicting views on masculinity. The findings reveal that dietary habits and body ideals are influenced by societal norms, affecting self-expression and athletic participation. The research underscores the need for inclusive policies that consider gender and dietary diversity in sports environments.

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