Gender equity and female participation in sport : a qualitative study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to discover whether women participating in sport are given the same rights, opportunities, treatments and financial support in Malta. The study shall also delve into the challenges women in sport are facing. Such challenges included gender stereotypes, lack of opportunities, biological factors, facilities and resources amongst others. This study adopted a qualitative approach to collect data by using twelve semi-structured interviews. Data was then analysed by means of Thematic Analysis. The participants making up this study practice football, basketball, rugby, water polo, athletics and weightlifting respectively. One male and one female were chosen from each sport mentioned in order to be able to compare and contrast the results, enhancing validity and reliability. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Six themes emerged: ‘Biological Factors’, ‘Motivation to stay’, ‘Gender Stereotypes’, ‘Barriers’, ‘Inequality’ and ‘Opportunities’. The findings indicated that in certain sports, mostly team sports, women still struggle till this very day even for their rights to be included and considered as equals. The participants discussed their experiences and challenges that they face in a male-dominated sporting world.