Gender stereotypes as a determinant of participation in sports in childhood

Abstract

Introduction Even today, negative stereotypes and patterns of inequality still exist that determine women's participation in sports. In the case of girls, adherence to the principle of equality in sports during schooling gradually declines from preadolescence onwards. The objective of this study was to analyse children's participation in municipal sports schools and determine whether it reflected the gender stereotypes reported in the specialist literature [1] , [2] , [3] . Methods Using a qualitative approach, the specialist literature was reviewed to identify traits associated with male sports activities (strength, stamina, more active, aggressive, risk) and female sports activities (rhythm, expression, elasticity, flexibility, coordination). The sample consisted of children ( n = 3506) participating in the various sports activities offered by the Municipal Sports Schools in the 2012/2013 season and aimed at children of both sexes aged 7–11 years. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results Overall participation in sports was higher among boys (51.5%) than girls (48.5%). The highest rates of participation were observed in activities associated with male traits (handball 72.6%, futsal 91.3%, hockey 88.9%, Leon wrestling 57.9%, rugby 66.7%), compared with those in which the female traits described in the literature predominated (rhythmic and artistic gymnastics 98.8% – 81.8%, volleyball 94.6%). However, the data also revealed that female participation was higher in activities such as athletics and basketball. Conclusions From infancy, gender role socialisation and social and cultural pressures inculcate socially acceptable gender practices. Coeducation and the involvement of various social agents would enhance adherence to sport, especially among girls.