Elizabeth Janeiro, a sport and exercise psychology student, presented research, in collaboration with Dr. Dana Voelker, as part of her eight week-long summer internship. Janeiro presented her project at the Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium,in late July at the Erickson Alumni Center.
“Elizabeth and I worked collaboratively on this research project at every stage and we plan to continue our work together by submitting a peer-reviewed manuscript with the results,” said Voelker.
Janeiro’s data-based project focused on disordered eating and sport-related weight pressures in male figure skaters. Janeiro and Voelker conducted a study including 29 male figure skaters across five states. The figure skaters completed survey measures for disordered eating and various psychological variables. They completed open-ended items on the perceived influence of figure skating on body image, exercise and eating behaviors.
Voelker explained why they believe body image is important, and why they chose to research this specific topic.
“Body image encompasses how we perceive, think, feel and act toward our bodies and is a cornerstone of health, wellness and performance. Addressing body image among athletes is essential to preventing a host of psychosocial concerns and promoting healthy and productive outcomes both within sport and beyond,” said Voelker.
Voelker wanted to create an internship experience where Janeiro would learn more about research and how it can impact society.
“My hope is that Elizabeth has enhanced her understanding of the value of research, developed a diverse set of research skills, learned about a new area of inquiry and built her confidence in her ability to read, critique and conduct research,” she explained. “I also hope that she has learned how science and collaborative efforts in the academy are used to make a real difference in the community,” Voelker added.
Janeiro, from Ashburn, Virginia, expects to graduate this December. Janeiro plans to attend graduate school to study mental health and rehabilitation counseling.
“My ultimate goal is to work with recovering addicts in an applied clinical setting in helping them get their lives back on track and overcome their substance addiction using what I have learned in graduate school,” said Janeiro.