Whatever it Takes: Health Compromising Behaviors in Female Athletes

The power and performance model of sport stresses a sport ethic of doing “whatever it takes” to win (Coakley, 2004). Uncritical acceptance of this model may lead to various health-compromising behaviors. Employing achievement goal theory, we examine why female athletes may adopt the power and performance approach. An ego motivational climate and a strong social approval goal orientation may encourage girls and women to engage in unhealthy and risky behaviors in pursuit of success. Athletes in an ego-involving climate may be at risk of using their bodies as a machine, unhealthy eating, and steroid use. Athletes with a strong social approval orientation may engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as binge drinking and hazing, in their quest for acceptance by teammates, coaches, and parents.