Chapter Preview 2 Chapter Preview · Section 2 Theoretical Perspectives and Sport (pages 503–511) Functionalists see sport positively, as a means for socializing young people, promoting social integration, providing a release for tensions, and developing sound character. Conflict theorists believe that organized sports can be harmful to character development. Symbolic interactionists focus on the self-concepts and relationships developed through sport activities.

A.A B.B C.C D.D Section-Polling Question What do you think is the main function of sport? A.Character development B.Promote social identification C.Release for tension D.Teach basic norms

Section 2 Culture and Sport Sport is a major social activity through which culture is created and reinforced. Sociologists disagree about the social implications of sport. Sport Paradoxes

A.A B.B C.C Section 2 “American sport embodies American values…” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? A.Agree B.Disagree C.Not sure

You Play Like A Girl!

Section 2 Functionalism Functionalists think sport is important because it helps society work more smoothly. Olympic Success

Section 2 Functionalism (cont.) The functions of sport: –To teach basic beliefs, norms, and values. –To promote a sense of social identification. –To offer a safe release of aggressive feelings generated by the frustrations, anxieties, and strains of modern life. –To encourage the development of character.

Section 2 Functionalism (cont.) Dysfunctions of sport: –The desire to win may cause extreme violence. –It may also cause cheating.

A.A B.B C.C D.D Section 2 How do functionalists view the role of sport in society? A.Sport teaches basic beliefs, norms, and values. B.Sport promotes a sense of social identification. C.Sport offers a safe release of aggressive feelings generated by the frustrations, anxieties, and strains of modern life. D.Sport encourages the development of character.

Section 2 Conflict Theory To conflict theorists, sport is a social institution in which the most powerful oppress, manipulate, coerce, and exploit others. Although sport unites temporarily, inequality and social division still exist.

Section 2 Conflict Theory (cont.) They also believe that the better one is at a sport, the less sportsmanship he or she shows. Sports scandals seem to be everywhere.

A.A B.B C.C D.D Section 2 What are some of the drugs that athletes take? A.Steroids B.Growth hormones C.Amphetamines D.All of the above

Section 2 Symbolic Interactionism This perspective concentrates on personal meaning, social relationships, and self- identity processes. The meanings of the symbols associated with sports affect the self-concepts, as well as the relationships, of those involved.

Section 2 Symbolic Interactionism (cont.) Limitations of each perspective: –Functionalists—critics of this perspective contend that many sports have become so closely tied to elite interests that they contribute more to private profit than to the general well-being of society.

Section 2 Symbolic Interactionism (cont.) –Conflict theorists—they tend to overlook the positive contributions of sport to society. –Symbolic interactionists—they fail to include the broader social and cultural context. Social Effects of Sport

A.A B.B C.C D.D Section 2 How were social interaction and self- concepts affected by sports? A.Hustle B.Weaker C.Aggressive behavior D.Loss of self-esteem

Section 3-End

Figure 15.1

Figure 15.2

World View Olympic Success Source: The World Almanac and Book of Facts, 2005.