AbstractBeliefs that sport participation inherently leads to personal development and social capital benefits have been termed the Great Sport Myth (Coakley, 2015). The purpose of this study was to examine the extent that U.S. adults embrace the Great Sport Myth and the potential influence that their primary groups, social stratification indicators, and sport experiences have had on their beliefs in the personal development and social capital benefits of sport. Data was collected through a large national U.S. survey, the National Sports and Society Survey, and analyzed with multiple regression analyses. Findings suggest that most Americans endorse the Great Sport Myth. Furthermore, primary groups, stratification indicators, and positive sport experiences appear to consistently shape beliefs in the Great Sport Myth.
A Review of Parental Input, Investment and Social Stratification in Children's Sport Participation
