Which activity participation could indicate a risk factor for the development of an eating disorder in adolescents?

Participation in the swim team can indicate a risk factor for the development of an eating disorder in adolescents due to the nature of the sport, which often emphasizes weight control and body image. Swimming, like many other performance-oriented sports, may place a significant focus on physical appearance and body composition, leading athletes to adopt unhealthy dieting practices in an attempt to meet perceived standards. This pressure can contribute to disordered eating behaviors, such as restrictive dieting or excessive exercise, as individuals strive for an idealized body shape that aligns with the demands of the sport.

In contrast, activities such as community service, involvement in academic clubs, and engagement in volunteer opportunities typically do not emphasize physical appearance or promote weight-related pressures. These activities are more about social, educational, or altruistic engagement, which do not carry similar risks for disordered eating behaviors. Therefore, participation in the swim team stands out as a specific activity that could elevate the risk of developing an eating disorder due to the inherent values and pressures associated with competitive swimming.