Sociology 390
I. Course Title: Sociology of Sport
II. Course Number: SOCY 390
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: SOCY 110 or SOCY 121
V. Course Description:
Sociological theories are utilized to understand the significance of sport as a social institution. Issues such as sport and socialization, the social organization of sport, sport and social stratification, and the relationship of sport to other institutions are discussed.
Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course. This course may be used to meet requirements for the minor in Women’s and Gender Studies.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
I. Sport As a Microcosm of American Society
A. Introduction to the Sociological Study of Sport
- The pervasiveness of sport
- Obstacles impeding scholarly research in sport
- Definitions: sport, leisure, recreation, contest, game
B. Sport, Values, and Society
- Instrumental foci
- Managerial foci
- Deviance in sport
C. Sports for Children
- Socialization via play and games
- Socialization via sport
II. Sport and Social Institutions
A. Sport and Education
- Role of the athlete
- Role of the coach
B. Sport and Religion
- Sport as religion
- How religion and sport use each other
C. Sport and Politics
- Political uses for sport
- Political attitudes of coaches and athletes
D. Sport and Economics
- Professional sport
- Impact of the mass media
III. Sport and Social Problems
A. Racism
- History of black involvement in sport
- Black dominance in sport
- Racial discrimination in sport
B. Sexism
- Role of the female athlete
- Myths and realities about female sports participation
- Sport socialization for females
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Approximately two-thirds of this class is in lecture format. The additional one-third is discussion of materials drawn from assigned readings, audio-visual presentations, and topical issues in the sports world.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
Students will:
- Develop a sociological perspective on sport;
- Become familiar with the ways that sociological theories and methods might be used to examine sport;
- Examine a behind-the-scenes look at the functioning of sports organizations;
- Become more astute consumers of sport.
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Students may be graded on the basis of in-class examinations, which may consist of objective and essay questions; quizzes; term papers or projects; and class attendance and participation.
Other Course Information: Informal, ungraded in-class writings may be used to facilitate discussion.
Review and Approval
DATE ACTION REVIEWED
January, 2004 Reviewed Peggy A. Shifflett
March, 2009