Essay On Gender Differences In Sports

Males and females must fulfill specific gender roles and stereotypes that have been established by society. Males are expected to be strong, independent and athletic, whereas females are expected to be quiet, obedient and attractive nurturers. To this day there are very noticeable differences in women 's sports compared to the nature of men 's sports. Males are expected to exhibit certain characteristics and behaviours that are “masculine”, while females are held responsible for being “feminine”. For example, if you were to ask a group of people what they would rather watch: women 's basketball or men 's basketball; the majority of the group would favour watching men 's basketball. On the contrary, most people would rather watch women 's synchronized …show more content…
Professional sports specifically strains gender differences and I believe these tensions and gender gaps start in high school. In this paper I will discuss the similarities and differences between males and females at my high school; while considering rules, practices, performances, authorities, attitudes, opportunities and reception. Also, I will note age, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and influence on the formation of gender identities. While gender roles have changed over time, both Rigdemont High school’s girls basketball and boys basketball teams still have social expectations that guide the idea of what it means to be male or female. Being a member of Ridgemont High school’s girls basketball team I was exposed to sexism and gender inequality. The notion that men are supposed to be strong, aggressive, fast and competitive is portrayed in many sports. Similarly, women are not encouraged to play sports because the above traits are not associated with women. When it comes to physical activity, it is expected of women to play in a subtle way. For example, men are expected to play baseball, where the pitcher throws overhand from a elevated mound; where