Hallinan, Christopher J (1998) Dimensions of gender differentiation and centrality in the employment structure of university recreation centers. Journal of Sport Behavior, 21 (3). pp. 256-264. ISSN 0162-7341

Abstract

Many universities in North America have placed increased emphasis on their Recreation and Intramural Sports programs and facilities. This has resulted in increased funding for facilities and personnel. College student recreation programs were surveyed to assess the extent of female leadership in each program. Program directors were asked to provide a list of job descriptions, the number of positions for each job, and the number of women and men employed in each. Additionally, program directors were asked to rate the role qualities for each position. These role qualities consisted of three types: androgynous, masculine, feminine. Data were received from 12 programs that had a combined workforce of 514 females and 795 males. Results showed that, even though women are underrepresented as a proportion of the total workforce, they are overrepresented at occupations (aerobics instructors - 93 percent, desk attendants - 66 percent) which were characterized by feminine stereotypes: cheerful, loyalty. Furthermore, women were underrepresented as field supervisors (32 percent) and officials (25 percent). These positions were characterized as requiring leadership, decision-making, and forcefulness. Thus, the most likely occupation for female students is highly visible, yet on the periphery of organizational responsibility, and characterized by attributes that support gender stereotypes.

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