A socio-ecological approach to understanding the experiences of women and girls playing male-dominated sports

January 1, 2024 - Pankowiak, Aurelie; Casey, Meghan; Eime, Rochelle; Westerbeek, Hans

Journal or Book Title: SPORT IN SOCIETY

DOI:10.1080/17430437.2024.2390989

Abstract: This study aimed to understand the experiences of women and girls playing male-dominated sports through a gendered lens on the socio-ecological model. Data collected from fifteen semi-structured interviews with Australian women and girls was thematically analysed at the societal, the organisational/community, the interpersonal and the intrapersonal levels. The study highlights that gendered factors shaped women's and girls' experiences at all levels. Club leadership valued women and girls' inclusion, but resources were sometimes unevenly committed, and men's participation and leadership were privileged. This inequity fuelled women and girls' desire to advocate change for future generations. A socio-ecological system approach is critical to continue gender equity developments in sport.

Type of Publication: Article; Early Access

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