Introduction to Deviance in Sport

• Course: Kine 2079

• Instructor: Nicole Lee

• Date: November 12, 2024

Defining Deviance

• Deviance occurs when actions, ideas, or traits fall outside societal acceptance.

• Perception of deviance varies based on observers.

Defining Deviance in Sport

• Encompasses a range of behaviors.

• No single theory explains acts of deviance in sporting contexts.

Characteristics of Deviance in Sport

• Societal Norm Violation: Deviance includes behaviors that strafe normal rules, values, and norms.

• Variability in Acceptance: Some types of deviance are accepted, tolerated, or even celebrated within specific contexts of sport.

Types of Deviance in Sport

• Official Deviance: Violations of rules/laws punished by authorities.

• Unwritten Deviance: Violations of informal customs punished by peers.

Examples of Deviance: Individuals with Disabilities

• Stereotypes portray typical-function individuals as more valuable, labeling those with disabilities as deviant.

• Athletes with disabilities often viewed as inspirational yet deviate from prevailing athletic norms.

Notable Example: Chantal Petitclerc

• Achievements: 5 gold medals at Athens Paralympics; unique recognition mindset illustrating focus on disabled athletes.

• Perspective: Recognized key accomplishments as deviant behaviors in the context of mainstream achievements.

The “Real” Olympics vs. Paralympic Games

• Discussion on the societal perception of the 'real' Olympics vs Paralympics, influenced by those in the able-bodied community.

The Paralympics

• Historical exclusion of athletes with disabilities modifying rules against them, particularly targeting intellectual disabilities.

Positive Deviance in Athletes

• Sometimes, over-enthusiastic adherence to norms leads to problematic behaviors, termed positive deviance.

• Examples: Health sacrifices for success or the calculated risk of doping.

Additional Examples of Positive Deviance

• Reactions to team celebrations such as drinking and smoking by Canadian athletes; reflects relative gender expectations in sports.

References

• Scherer, J., & Wilson, B. (Eds.). (2020). Sport and Physical Culture in Canadian Society (2nd ed.). Pearson.