Why Study Gender Representation in Sports?

Gender representation has been studied extensively in terms of television shows, film, and even music. However, there has not been as much research on gender representation in the sports world. An important idea to consider in the communications world is how men and women are portrayed differently in sports media.  This includes both stereotypical and counter-stereotypical representations of men and women.  This is an important topic to learn more about because sports play such a huge role in today’s society. For example, athletes have become the most common type of role model for younger children to look up to. It is crucial to understand what kinds of effects kids (and everyone else in society) are experiencing from viewing these sports stars in the media. 

This photo shows two young sports fans, who are experiencing media effects without even realizing it.  The way men and women are portrayed in sports can affect what these kids will think of men and women in general society.