Abstract
Background. Sociological study of queer representation in sports has historically focused on gender within team sports, but less is known about these dynamics in more individual-oriented sports like climbing. Sociological scholarship on these dynamics in climbing has been relatively sparse. More mainstream analyses of queer issues in sports generally could potentially help examine these concepts. However, my experiences as a climber and former industry professional led me to believe that a more targeted qualitative sociological approach would provide valuable insight and perspective, particularly regarding this sports comparison.
Methods. This analysis draws upon ethnographic observation of a climbing gym in the Richmond area in Fall 2022, supplemented with in-depth, semi-structured interviews with climbers.
Results. Respondents of different identity backgrounds contrasted their experiences in climbing with those in other sports, team and individual. In particular, they commented on the inclusivity of the climbing community, providing examples of less hostility towards their queerness and more queer community. Most climbing requires collaboration and community, leaving less room for discrimination.
Conclusions. Climbing as an activity necessitates community due to its collaborative nature. Climbing has always been centered around a counter-cultural ethos, making it a prime candidate for inclusion of queer participants seeking community. This research suggests how the structure of certain sports may create different interpersonal dynamics. Specifically, it also deepens our theoretical understanding of how behaviors of toxic masculinity or queer inclusion may be rooted in the design of sports and the extent to which they encourage collaboration.
Publication Date
2023
Keywords
Sociology, Gender Identity, Gender, Climbing, Recreation, Masculinity, Gender Performance, Hegemonic Masculinity, Queer, Community
Disciplines
Gender and Sexuality | Inequality and Stratification | Other Sociology | Social Psychology and Interaction | Sociology | Sports Studies
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Dr. Victor Chen
Is Part Of
VCU Graduate Research Posters
Included in
Gender and Sexuality Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, Other Sociology Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons, Sports Studies Commons