Understanding LGBTQ Sport Spectators
Gainesville, FL | May 2024 - July 2024
Principal Investigator Department
Dr. Yonghwan Chan Sports Management
Research Focus
The research project focuses on understanding how LGBTQ spectators experience and engage with sports teams, particularly through the lens of their identification with these teams. It explores how traditional sports environments, which have historically been unwelcoming to LGBTQ individuals, affect their sense of belonging and team loyalty.
The project examines both theoretical and practical issues related to LGBTQ spectatorship in sports. It aims to highlight the barriers LGBTQ fans face, such as homophobia and lack of inclusive practices, and to emphasize the need for sports organizations to implement supportive policies. By addressing these issues, the research seeks to promote a more inclusive and welcoming environment that can enhance LGBTQ fans' connection and loyalty to sports teams.
Responsibilities
I conducted an extensive review of existing research on LGBTQ spectatorship in sports. I also used R to conduct path analysis on large data sets. I used the results from the path analysis to tie in my literature review findings to the scope of the project. Within the project I analyzed studies on heterosexism, homophobia, and institutional support related to LGBTQ inclusion in sports environments. I as well developed recommendations for sports organizations to enhance inclusivity and support for LGBTQ spectators and suggested practical strategies for implementing inclusive fan codes of conduct and reducing discrimination.
This research allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how discrimination and exclusion affect LGBTQ individuals' sense of belonging and identification with sports teams. I learned about the crucial role of institutional support in creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ fans. I found that universities and sports organizations with higher levels of gender equity are more likely to develop inclusive practices. This was a great project to be a apart of and to learn more on how gender and sexuality intersect to influence LGBTQ spectators' engagement with sports teams.