Stereotyping, stigma, and femininity in female sports

The purpose of this study is to discuss the experiences of female athletes regarding labeling, the social construction of reality, and feminine identity. Interviews were conducted, along with a focus group, and data were analyzed using the grounded theory method. The findings of this study discuss stereotypes of femininity, stereotypes made by society, athletes, and coaches and administration, as well as the reactions to these stereotypes by female athletes. What this discussion concludes is that appearance is the main factor in all of these areas. While other factors, such as heterosexual behavior and age come into play, appearance is the salient concept across all of these themes.