Gender inequalities: Investigating challenges female athletes face at sporting events as a consequence of the media.
Abstract
With the rise in feminism and the battle for gender equality, it
is important to analyse what areas of society need to change
their perspectives for the future of gender equality. The aim of
the research was to explore the inequalities faced by women
in relation to sporting events and specifically when they are
represented in the media. The objectives of the research
were to determine if women's sporting events are
underrepresented in the media, to understand visitation at
ladies sporting events and to establish people's reasons why
they choose not to attend ladies sporting events.
A review of past and current literature was undertaken on the
subject of media, representation of female athletes in the
media, and also fan behaviour and attitudes when it came to
attending sporting events. The information which was derived
from the literature then helped to determine the questions for
the research. A quantitative approach was taken to the
research with the use of surveys. The surveys were
distributed online to people who were in sports teams, or
involved in sport in the wider community. The survey was
derived mainly of close ended questions which allowed the
participants to determine whether they agreed or disagreed
with statements on female athletes and the media. A
selection of open ended questions were also included to allow
participants to voice their own opinions on the matter. A few
limitations occurred when conducting the research which included time constraints, a lesser number of participants than
anticipated and some unforeseen technology issues.
The results from the research were promising with regards to
the research aim and objectives. Each question had a varied
outcome, with a majority of participants in agreement with
statements on the lack media coverage with regards to female
athletes and ladies sporting events. A majority of participants,
were also in agreement with the statements regarding how
media outlets and commentators have a tendency to be sexist
towards female athletes.