Masters Theses
Date of Award
12-2010
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Recreation and Sport Management
Major Professor
Robin L. Hardin
Committee Members
Sylvia A. Trendafilova, Steven N. Waller
Abstract
Manipulation of stories and events expose issues of false representation and stereotyping within the mainstream media. This research examined the media’s role in shaping the behaviors and experiences of African American male athletes while using Critical Race Theory as the framework in conducting research. A focus group consisting of six former African American male student athletes was conducted. A semi-structured interview schedule was used in order to allow for open discussion. The Constant Comparison Method was instrumental in thematizing the data while QDA Miner software was used to analyze the data. The findings suggested that African American male athletes feel they are portrayed negatively in relation to leadership abilities as well as being portrayed as thugs and rappers. African American male athletes do feel pressured to challenge certain stereotypes presented by the media in order to become better role models for the African American community. Future research should explore the media’s impact on younger generations of African American male athletes as well as African American female athletes to compare whether similarities exists between the groups.
Recommended Citation
Bragg, Keia Janese, "We're Not Thugs and Rappers: An Examination of African American Male Athletes' Perceptions of the Media. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2010.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/773
Included in
Behavioral Disciplines and Activities Commons, Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Cognition and Perception Commons, Educational Psychology Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons, Social Psychology Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons, Sports Sciences Commons