Sept 24 - Sex, Gender, and Sexuality

Importance of the Topic

• Sports highlight norms, stereotypes, equality, and discrimination.

• Female athletes are often deprived of resources and respect.

• The 2SLGBTQIA+ community also faces discrimination in sports.

Clarifying Terms

Sex

• Classification based on reproductive capacities.

• Generally recognized as male and female.

Gender

• Cultural expectations for behaviors and appearances related to sex.

• Exists on a broad spectrum, not a binary classification.

Biological Determinism

• Premise that biology dictates outcomes in sports.

• Example: Assertion that physical differences, like testosterone levels, dictate contact sport participation.

Social Constructionism

• Challenges biological determinism by highlighting variability of gender roles across cultures and time.

• Gender is defined by social contexts rather than biology.

Historical Context

• Sports historically viewed as male domains; women were secondary figures (e.g., Pierre de Coubertin’s view on women in the Olympics).

• Sports have shaped masculinity ideals.

Hegemonic Masculinity

• Refers to the idealized form of masculinity in sports.

• Influences public perception of athleticism and masculinity.

Research Insights

• Sports seen as defining masculinity in society.

• Male students use sports to safeguard their masculine reputation against bullying.

Female Athletes and Media Representation

• Sports media focuses on the “Big Four,” with minimal coverage of women’s sports (1.3% - 1.6%).

• Women athletes often portrayed in sexualized manners, overshadowing their achievements.

• Coverage tends to focus on their femininity rather than athleticism.

Gender Stereotypes in Sports

• Perceptions that some sports are more suitable for one sex over the other (e.g., football vs. gymnastics).

• Messaging conveys limitations on women’s capabilities in sports.

Sex Segregation in Sports

• Debate on fairness vs. physical differences in sports.

• Historical examples show shifts in sports policy, like Olympic shooting rules evolving for inclusivity.

The Transformation of Women's Sport

• Ongoing advancements toward equality and recognition for female athletes.

• Issues surrounding transgender athletes and the inclusivity within sports.

Acts of Violence and Discrimination

• Notable incidents of discrimination, including exclusion of athletes based on sexual orientation.

• The need for a more inclusive environment in mainstream sports media.