The effect of eating attitudes of wrestlers of different weights and categories on body perceptions

The aim of this study is to compare the eating attitudes and body perceptions of wrestlers across different weight classes and categories, to investigate the relationship between these variables, and to determine their effects. This research employs a relational scanning model and includes 265 wrestlers from various styles, categories, and weight classes. To collect data, a three-question demographic information form, an eating attitude test, and a body perception scale were utilized. The data were analyzed using SPSS 26 software, and their distributions were examined. For the analysis of normally distributed data, the T-test was employed for binary groups, while One-Way ANOVA was used for groups larger than two. Pearson correlation analysis was utilized to analyze the relationships between the scales. To determine the effect sizes among the identified correlated variables, Simple Linear Regression analysis was conducted. According to the analysis results between the body perception scale and demographic variables, significant differences were found based on category and style, whereas no significant differences were observed concerning weight class variables. In the analysis of the eating attitude test and demographic variables, significant differences were identified in the category and wrestling style variables, while no significant difference was noted for the weight class variable. The relationship analysis between the eating attitude test and the body perception scale revealed a moderate, significant, and negative relationship among the variables. Regression analysis concerning eating behaviors and body perceptions indicated that eating attitudes have a low predictive effect on body perceptions. In conclusion, the relationship analysis conducted between the Eating Attitude Test and the Body Perception Scale found a moderate, significant, and negative correlation among the variables. These findings suggest that as the level of eating disorders decreases, the level of body satisfaction among participants increases. Moreover, as disturbances in eating behaviors diminish, individuals' perceptions of their own bodies improve positively.