NCAA STUDENT-ATHLETE PERCEPTIONS OF THEIR ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT CLIMATE CONCERNING LGBT+ ISSUES

Abstract

Past research has indicated a movement towards the acceptance of diverse sexual-orientation within society and the workplace (Lubensky, Holland, Wiethoff, and Crosby, 2004); Unfortunately discrimination is still very prevalent today, especially within athletic departments on a university campus (Jacobson, 2002).

Despite this fact, very little research has explored student-athletes attitudes and perceptions of LGBT+ climate. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study will be to investigate athlete’s (N= 287) perceptions of their institutions (Southeastern Division I University) athletic department LGBT+ climate and determine possible relationships between independent variables such as sexuality, gender and citizenship.

Results of this study support previous research, while further expanding the field through exploration of new independent variables and shifting the focus to athletic department climate. However, the main objective of this research is to serve as a basis for institutional change. Administrators must take a proactive approach to ensure student-athletes feel safe and respected.