The socialisation process and gender inequality in school sports

Abstract

Introduction Among the factors influencing school sports today, one of the most important is the socialisation process, which involves various social agents such as the family, school, peers, etc., and continues to transmit a considerable number of stereotyped behaviours and attitudes that impede participant equality and models of best practice with children [1] , [2] . Experience This analysis was based on a review of various theoretical and empirical perspectives reported in the literature, which indicated that the process of socialisation in sports exerts a strong influence on behavioral differences and the development of identity at this age (between 12 and 13 years). Moreover, in girls, this process often leads to a conflict of roles between femininity and participation in sport. Thus, sport seems to the maintenance of inequality and gender stereotypes from the beginning of sports participation. In fact, the cultural traits that are transmitted continue to steer boys and girls towards sports that are associated more with masculinity or femininity, respectively. Critical analysis Sport is also a social agent that can be used as a force for change in gender relations, if multisport activities are promoted in which skills and abilities are developed according to the person rather than to his or her sex. Action is also needed in the immediate environment, so that socialisation in terms of role learning does not entail a disadvantage when choosing and participating in sports. Conclusions Multisports activities can propose the development of several skills and abilities focusing on the person needs rather than to his/her sex. If such activities are promoted, sports can become a social agent that can be used as an agent for change in gender relationships. To carry out a more equality peer socialization is very important to act in the family and educational contexts.