Which condition is characterized by abnormal eating behaviors and negative body image in athletes?

The condition characterized by abnormal eating behaviors and negative body image in athletes is eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia. These disorders involve a complex relationship with food, body weight, and self-perception, often driven by a desire to achieve a particular body shape or performance level. In the athletic context, athletes may feel pressured to meet specific weight criteria or to conform to societal ideals of a lean body type, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as extreme dieting, purging, or excessive exercise.

Eating disorders can have severe physical and psychological consequences, impairing athletic performance and overall health. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is critical for early intervention, as athletes may be reluctant to acknowledge their struggles due to fear of stigma or concerns about their athletic standing.

The other conditions mentioned do not primarily focus on abnormal eating behaviors and body image distortions. Overtraining syndrome relates to physical fatigue and performance decline rather than eating habits. Stress management issues might impact an athlete’s overall well-being but do not exclusively pertain to eating behavior. Excessive caloric intake can indicate poor dietary choices, but it does not encompass the negative body image aspect associated with eating disorders.