As part of the Erasmus + program, Mrs Jolanta Maj (PhD) from the Opole University of Technology in Poland visited University College Aspira.
On May 6 she held a lecture for Aspira students with the topic “You throw like a girl”, Gender stereotipes in Sport. The lecture was very interesting. She talked about the sport which is regarded as more “masculine” if it is aggressive and risky and brings money. On the other hand, “feminine” sports are considered to be safe and to contribute to the preservation of health. Stereotypes usually cannot be associated with biological differences between the two sexes, even though stereotypes begin as soon as we find out if our baby is a boy or a girl.
Mrs Jolanta in her lecture also states why is it important to look at sex and sport? Sport is a social and cultural process in which social constructions of masculinity and femininity play a key role. Sport is traditionally associated with power. In many societies, it is considered inappropriate for women to be involved in sports, and women who play sports can be seen as “masculine”.
Some studies have shown that girls and women who participate in sports and physical activity in developed and developing countries show higher self-esteem. This feeling is associated with a sense of achievement, improved physical appearance and developed devotion to exercise. Evidence from developing countries shows that participation in organized sports activities really helps in the growth and development of young girls and their character.
We thank Ms. Jolanta once again for being a guest lecturer on our University College and for the wonderful lecture!