The Bias and Mistreatment of Women in Sports: Why is Being a Female Athlete So Complex?
Date of Award
Summer 6-30-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Ryan Hubbard
Abstract
In a world where sports have traditionally been dominated by men, female athletes face unique obstacles that can impact their performance, opportunities, and overall well-being. Women's sports has some of the most talented, hardworking, and athletic women, but they are not recognized for the work that they do. Women's sports need more recognition and support. The exposure that the women's game needs will help expand the sponsorship, media, and economic support. The purpose of this study is to examine the discrepancies that women basketball players face due to the lack of equity. The research is literature-based that explains the treatment of women basketball players. Not only on the professional level but also the collegiate level. The question is ‘what role do media consumption (television viewing, sports viewing, and attention to coverage of specific types of sports), sports participation (participation in organized sports, personal fitness, and playing specific types of sports), gender role socialization (as measured by attitudes toward masculinity) and demographics (gender and ethnicity) play in the gender typing of sports?’ The significance of this research was to show that the discrepancies of lack of media attention, sexualization, and societal expectations all have an impact on how women athletes are viewed. These women need more support, more constructive media attention, and to have equal treatment as male athletes.