Characterization of LGBT sports teams in Brazil: mapping from online social networks

Abstract

Introduction: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) individuals are more tolerant of having negative experiences in the cultural environments of sport. In view of this, LGBT sports teams and teams were created so that their members could find a safe and welcoming leisure space to practice sports. Objective: The study aimed to map and characterize the LGBT sports team in Brazil within the Instagram social network and to analyze the contents published by them in their official profiles. Method: A mapping of LGBT sports teams with a profile on the social network and thematic analysis of the published images were carried out. Results: 103 profiles of LGBT sports teams were mapped, of which 90 were analyzed. Most associations are in the capitals and metropolitan regions of the South and Southeast regions. Regarding the theme of the posted analyses, the data appreciated that the publications of the associations focused on activities of the associations relevant to sport, social events and political activism. Conclusion: LGBT sports teams have a broader repertoire of action than sports. They are spaces for socialization, formation of personal bonds and obedience to promote the health of their members.