Event Title
Variation in High School Sports Participation Across U.S. States
Presentation Type
Poster/Portfolio
Presenter Major(s)
Psychology, Statistics
Mentor Information
Robert Deaner, deanerr@gvsu.edu
Department
Psychology
Location
Kirkhof Center KC19
Start Date
13-4-2011 3:00 PM
End Date
13-4-2011 4:00 PM
Abstract
Cross-cultural studies reveal that the sports played in a particular society reflect its functional priorities and values. For example, combative sports are more popular in societies that frequently engage in warfare. Here we explore whether this functionalist approach can explain variation in girls' and boys' high school sports participation across U.S. states. Using data from the National Federation of State High School Associations, we tested and found support for two hypotheses: (1) girls' participation should be relatively higher in states where females attain relatively better economic and educational outcomes; and (2) masculine sports, especially, combative male team sports (e.g., football), are more popular in politically conservative states. These results highlight the meaningful variability within the U.S., and, apparently for first time, relate it to the realm of sports.
Variation in High School Sports Participation Across U.S. States
Kirkhof Center KC19
Cross-cultural studies reveal that the sports played in a particular society reflect its functional priorities and values. For example, combative sports are more popular in societies that frequently engage in warfare. Here we explore whether this functionalist approach can explain variation in girls' and boys' high school sports participation across U.S. states. Using data from the National Federation of State High School Associations, we tested and found support for two hypotheses: (1) girls' participation should be relatively higher in states where females attain relatively better economic and educational outcomes; and (2) masculine sports, especially, combative male team sports (e.g., football), are more popular in politically conservative states. These results highlight the meaningful variability within the U.S., and, apparently for first time, relate it to the realm of sports.