Sports Persistence Among Ever Sexual Minorities: A Longitudinal Analysis of Add Health Waves I Through IV

Abstract

Relative exclusion of sexual minorities (SM) from sports participation (SP) has been noted in cross-sectional data across cohorts of youth and adults. The relative lack of physical activity likely contributes to health disparities. Our aim was to determine associations between adolescent SP and adulthood team and individual SP among those ever identifying as SM (Ever SM). A complete case analysis was conducted with nationally representative data (n = 8,791) from the Add Health study across three timepoints (Waves I, III, and IV). In the full sample of Ever and Never SM, Ever SM were less likely to play team sports at Waves III and IV when adjusting for adolescent SP, race/ethnicity, age, and sex. SM status had no significant effect on individual SP. In a subpopulation analysis of Ever SM and adjusting for demographics, adolescent SP significantly predicted individual SP in adulthood (Wave III—odds ratio [OR]: 1.53; confidence interval [CI]: 1.04, 2.27; Wave IV—OR: 1.61; CI: 1.13, 2.30) but did not predict adulthood team SP at either adult wave (Wave III—OR: 1.40; CI: 0.94, 2.01; Wave IV—OR: 1.06; CI: 0.57, 2.00). These findings suggest disparities in team sports persistence by SM status, potentially contributing to reduced physical activity among SM throughout the lifespan. Targeted efforts to support the retention of SM athletes within team sports environments may contribute to overall well-being.