Black Athlete Lives Matter: A Qualitative Study Examining Factors Impacting Athlete Activism In The Nation’s Current Racial Climate
Abstract
The purpose of this study was two-fold: to understand the lived experiences of Black male athletes within the context of the current racial climate in America, and to understand the ways in which racial socialization informs the Black male athlete experience and their perceptions about athlete activism. This study used a grounded theory qualitative approach that was informed by a Critical Race Theory framework. Nine former and current Black male athletes were interviewed about their experiences, racial socialization practices they were exposed to, and perceptions about athlete activism. Using constant comparative analysis, the following theory emerged: Racial and Athletic Identity Awareness Informs the Black Male Athlete Experience and Views on Activism. This theory states that the awareness of racial and athletic identity, both interrelated and in itself, is informs the Black male athlete experience and their perspectives and views about activism. This theory is shaped by underlying categories: racial socialization builds identity, negative messages, positive outcomes, Black athletes and social change, and athletics is modern day slavery.
Subject Area
Psychology|African American Studies
Recommended Citation
Sydnee Collins,
"Black Athlete Lives Matter: A Qualitative Study Examining Factors Impacting Athlete Activism In The Nation’s Current Racial Climate"
(2019).
ETD Collection for Tennessee State University.
Paper AAI13815225.
https://digitalscholarship.tnstate.edu/dissertations/AAI13815225