Understanding Eating Disorders in Male Athletes: An Interdisciplinary Perspective Examining Psychological and Sociological Influences

Summary

Although eating disorders impact athletes of all genders, research has primarily focused on female athletes creating a significant gap in understanding how eating disorders develop and impact male athletes. This trend is reflective of wider eating disorder research, where males have largely been underrepresented and neglected in studies, presenting serious inequalities in eating disorder research. This project aims to address this gap by examining how male athletes experience and manage eating disorders. The study will focus on high-pressure sporting environments where weight control is often normalised as a performance necessity, investigating how sports culture and psychological factors contribute to disordered eating behaviours. Emerging findings suggest that male athletes experience eating disorders differently from female athletes, typically showing less body image concerns yet a stronger drive for muscularity. However, persistent stereotypes framing eating disorders as a “female issue” may create barriers to help seeking in male athletes and hinder early identification of disordered eating in males.

This project presents an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to an under-researched, yet highly significant area of study. The successful candidate will explore the manifestation of eating disorders in male athletes, focusing on the influence of athletic culture and masculine identity. The project will investigate how stereotypes and related stigmas hinder male athletes from accessing necessary resources and support. The research aims to develop improved methods for identifying and managing eating disorders in male athletes. Findings will inform support systems for male athletes, guiding sports organisations and healthcare providers in more effective prevention, identification, and treatment strategies.

The ideal candidate may have a background in psychology, sociology or history among other disciplines.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.