Sport and Femininty Flashcards
What is emphasized femininity?
It is a culturally dominant version of femininity that includes traits like grace, delicateness, passivity, dependence, and heterosexy.
How do cultural norms affect female athletes?
Female athletes navigate pressures to conform to societal standards of beauty and often feel compelled to perform heterosexual femininity, overshadowing their athletic accomplishments.
What is the impact of emphasized femininity in specific sports?
In sports like figure skating and gymnastics, codes of emphasized femininity are integrated into the sport’s structure, focusing on appearance, grace, and emotional expression.
How does emphasized femininity affect body image among female athletes?
It can lead to unhealthy physical and dietary regimes, body image issues, and weight control concerns as women strive to meet idealized standards.
What is the significance of emergent sporting femininities?
Increasing participation of women in traditionally masculine sports, like rugby and soccer, challenges dominant norms of femininity and shifts focus to effectiveness over appearance.
What are the limitations of “Girl Power” feminism in sports?
While it promotes visibility and strength among female athletes, it can reinforce the idea that women must embody both beauty and power, masking systemic gender inequalities.
What is a critical perspective on post-feminism in sports?
It warns that the narrative of women “having it all” obscures everyday sexism and systemic inequalities, reinforcing the notion that feminism is no longer needed.
How do sports and exercise serve as contexts for gender relations?
They challenge cultural norms of femininity and provide spaces for resistance against dominant stereotypes, but personal empowerment does not always lead to broader societal change.
What does the statement “both males and females help structure gender relations” imply?
It suggests that gender relations are complex and influenced by both men and women, not just a one-sided power dynamic.
What significant change has occurred in female sports participation over the last 40 years?
There has been a notable increase in female participation due to new opportunities, legislation, and cultural shifts.
What role has government legislation played in increasing female participation in sports?
Government equal rights legislation has created more opportunities for women in sports, promoting equality and access.
How has the global women’s rights movement influenced sports participation?
The movement has raised awareness and advocated for women’s rights, leading to more support and opportunities for female athletes.
What impact has the expanding health and fitness movement had on female participation?
It has encouraged more women to engage in sports and physical activities, emphasizing health and wellness.
How has media coverage affected women’s sports?
Increased media coverage has brought visibility to women’s sports, showcasing athletes and encouraging participation among young girls.
What are some barriers that still exist for women in sports despite increased participation?
Barriers include ongoing gender stereotypes, unequal funding, and less media coverage compared to men’s sports.
