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P A R T 5
Social Factors Affecting Sports Participation

Apart from this, the sports that the upper class is interested in are usually individual sports such as tennis,
golf and fencing. Although the probability of participating in sports of the upper class individuals is higher
than the individuals belonging to the lower class, the sports attended by the upper class are directly
proportional to the tastes and life preferences of the upper class. In addition, the upper class determines
the sports that other classes are interested in. This situation can be interpreted as an indication that the
upper class is more dominant within the scope of sports and social class (Dever, 2021).
Race and Ethnicity
Another important societal factor influencing participation in sporting events is the influence of race and
ethnicity in most societies. To distinguish between these terms, race refers to groups of people
characterized by physical or biological characteristics, while ethnicity refers to groups of people
characterized by their cultural heritage and traditions (Stroot, 2001). It is clear that people belonging to
various racial and ethnic groups have different opportunities to participate in sports.
Geographical location can also affect engagement opportunities. It is much easier for a child living in cold
regions to learn to ice skate and play ice hockey than a child living in a warm climate. Similarly, a child who
lives by the ocean will have a better chance of learning to surf. However, geographic differences do not
explain larger differences in sports opportunities for children in the same geographic areas. In some cases,
economic conditions can eliminate geographical differences.
Conclusion
Sports have always had an important place in the life of societies, sometimes as entertainment, sometimes
as an indicator of social solidarity, and sometimes as an indicator of prestige. Sports, with its unique
features, contributes to social life by removing individuals from the monotonous lifestyle brought by
modern life and helps individuals to socialize. Since every competition is unique and sports involve a mass
movement, sports will continue to exist with humanity as a social phenomenon. For this reason, directing
individuals to sports is very important for today's societies in order to benefit from these advantages.

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