Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

2017

Thesis Director

Brian L. Pritschet

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether collegiate sport teams in which female participants are required to wear uniforms that are more revealing, have a more negative self-perception of body image and greater drive for muscularity than those with non-revealing uniforms. Female athletes from 7 women's NCAA Division I collegiate athletic teams from a Midwestern university took part in this study. Subjects were grouped according to the type of uniform worn during competition in their sport. Subjects were divided into two categories: revealing uniforms (n = 33), which included volleyball, track and field, cross country, and swimming, while non-revealing uniforms (n = 26) which included softball, soccer and basketball. These two group categories were formed in order to compare the relationship of perceived body image and uniform type. Measures used to evaluate perceived body image included the Drive for Muscularity Scale, Body Shape Questionnaire, and the Stunkard Scale (Ideal and Reality). Independent t- tests were used to compare the dependent variables between groups for each of the 4 measures. There were no significant differences (p≥0.05) between the revealing uniform group and non-revealing uniform group for any of the four independent variables relating to the results of the body image dissatisfaction and drive for muscularity. Results showed both groups having no or only mild levels of body dissatisfaction and a moderate to low drive for muscularity. The revealing uniform group indicated a leaner body image as their ideal body image as compared to non-revealing group (p=0.004). It was concluded from these findings that the type of sport uniform worn by these female collegiate athletes did not appear to influence levels of body dissatisfaction or drive for muscularity differently. However, those in the revealing uniform group indicated a learner ideal than those in the non-revealing uniform group.

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