The impact of openly LGBTQIA individuals on the perception of team cohesion in Division 1 women's college athletics

Abstract

This study explored the aspects of team cohesion among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and straight female athletes in the world of Division I college athletics at a southeastern university. In doing so, the researchers sought to form a better understanding of the relationships and experiences between the LGBTQIA and heterosexual athletes. The Group Environment Questionnaire (GEQ) was combined with specific demographic questions to assess the athlete’s team cohesion as it relates to their sexual orientation.

Past studies involving the GEQ have researched multiple variables, but few have researched the effect of an athlete’s sexual orientation on team cohesion. Results from this study indicated no statistically significant difference in the perception of team cohesion for LGBTQIA athletes and their heterosexual teammates.