Older Australian gay men’s long-term alienation from sport: a phenomenological investigation

Abstract

Gay men collectively participate in fewer sports than heterosexual men. An understanding of older gay men’s early sport experiences may provide insights into what may have contributed to this reduced participation. Nonetheless, there is limited research focussing on older gay men’s experiences with sport. Via semi-structured online interviews, this hermeneutic phenomenological research investigated the early experiences of 21 Australian gay men aged 60 and over. Most participants spoke of homonegative experiences. Themes that emerged from the analysis were: Junior school sport was unpleasant; Sport was violence; My masculinity was denigrated; and I hate sport. Aimed at improving the health of older gay men, this research provides insights about the implementation of sport and physical activity programs. For this population, it is recommended that individual activities are conducted within inclusive and supportive environments that are sensitive to those who have had adverse childhood experiences.