The aim of the research was to investigate addiction to virtual social networks with the mediating role of harmful eating behaviors and negative body image in athletes. The method of this research is a correlational design based on the analysis of structural relationships. The statistical sample in this research was 309 athletes from Tehran in 1402. Research data were collected using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (2016), Littleton's Body Image Fear Inventory (2005), Exercise Dependence Scale (2002), and Nutrition Attitude Test (1982). Questionnaires were also completed online. The findings showed that addiction to virtual social networks with the mediating role of harmful eating behaviors can predict sports addiction, but addiction to virtual social networks could not predict sports addiction with the mediating role of negative body image. According to the above results, we can understand the importance of harmful eating behaviors in the path of addiction to virtual networks and addiction to sports, and by targeting these components, we can help to improve addiction to sports.
