Social Institutions Sports I So what exactly is

Social Institutions: “Sports”

I. ) So, what exactly is a Sport? A. Sociological Definition: physical activity that is governed by a set of rules or customs and often engaged in competitively B. Sport is a major social activity by which culture is created and reinforced Example: Which of the following would NOT be considered a sport? A. Baseball game between two teams B. Football game between two teams C. A hundred yard dash between friends D. Swim meet involving two high schools

II. ) Sport as a Social Institution A. Sport serves important social needs within society: 1. teaches basic values of society 2. promotes attachment to society 3. provides self-identification with others in society B. Sport Subcultures: 1. sport creates subcultures around team and individual sports mirroring society at large Examples: roles (team captain) values (winning) norms (fairness) beliefs (hard work)

III. ) Theoretical Perspectives A. Functionalist View: promote social integration and helps society run more efficiently The Four Functions: ü ü Teaches beliefs, norms, and values, Promotes a sense of social identification Offers safe release of aggressive energy from stress of everyday life Encourages the development of character Sport Dysfunctions: 1. winning is everything attitude 2. violence in sport 3. cheating

B. Conflict View: social conflict exists within despite attachment to team Beliefs: o o o Maintains inequality Mirrors unequal distribution of power and money Powerful oppress, and exploit others B. Symbolic View: promotes self concept and social relationships through symbols of sports Beliefs: o o Participation in a sport can promote or hinder self concept Misinterpretations of symbols can take place leading to negative results

IV. ) Social Issues in Sport A. Social Mobility: participation in sports increases likelihood of increase in social status, but sport can act as barrier to upward mobility of minorities B. Race Issue: gaps in central positions on teams, power structure within organization, salary scale, and post career profit are central observable issues C. Sexism: women are not afforded the same treatment and opportunities as their male counterparts