Study: Gender Stereotypes in Sport Increasing Among Youth
New research reveals a growing perception among young people that sports are gender-specific. Fewer than half of girls report equal access to school sports.
A new study by the Youth Sport Trust indicates a rising trend in gender stereotypes within youth sports. The 2026 survey found that 56% of boys and 39% of girls believe boys' and girls' sports are viewed as equally important. Alarmingly, less than half of girls feel they have equal access to sports facilities and opportunities at school compared to boys.
The research highlights a significant increase in the belief that certain sports are for boys and others for girls. This perception rose from 35% of boys in 2023/24 to 41% in 2025/26. Among girls, the agreement increased from 20% to 25%. This attitude is most prevalent among 7-to-9-year-olds.
The findings underscore the critical role schools play in challenging these stereotypes. Providing positive experiences across a wide range of sports from an early age can help children overcome gendered expectations. Girls also reported unequal access to equipment and spaces outside of PE, and fewer opportunities to engage in desired activities.
Elite athletes, including Olympic medallist Georgia Hunter Bell and weightlifter Sarah Davies, suggest that the visibility of women's elite sport is insufficient to shift young people's attitudes. They emphasize the need for education and positive early experiences to promote gender equality in sport. The study also points to negative comments and appearance-based judgments impacting girls' participation, highlighting the necessity for early intervention and attitude adjustment.