THE INFLUENCE OF GENDER STEREOTYPES ON WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN COMPETITIVE SPORTS: A CASE STUDY OF SOCCER

Abstract

This paper examines the gender stereotypes that affect the women involvement in competitive soccer. Although the concept of female athletes becoming more visible is becoming reality, sex-based barriers are still restricting the activities of women in masculine sports. The study establishes the most important stereotypes that have a relative impact on participation and finds solutions to mitigate the impact. To achieve this, there was a mixed-methods approach which involved quantitative surveys of female soccer players in different tiers of the competition together with the qualitative semi-structured interviews of coaches and administrators. The patterns between stereotypes and participation were identified through statistical analysis and thematic one. The results indicate that stereotypes concerning physical abilities of women and expectations related to femininity in society continue to impact soccer playing. Women in competitive soccer feel marginalized by way of lack of media coverage as well as institutionalization. Nonetheless, these stereotypes are starting to be counteracted by more popular professional female soccer and institutional gender equality programs. The paper highlights the importance of further initiatives to tackle gender role in sports with institutionalized support, better media coverage and grassroots. It has been recommended that specific actions should be taken to transform the social attitudes, employ more women to be present at the top, as well as, provide equal opportunities and resources to the female football players. These actions are critical towards breaking the walls and creating inclusive conditions where women can compete and develop in the competitive soccer.

Keywords: Gender stereotypes, gender participation, sports compe