Safe spaces, shared goals: the role of LGBTQ+ sports teams in gay men’s identity and sense of belonging

This qualitative study explores gay men’s experiences of team sports across the lifespan, with a particular focus on discrimination, identity, and belonging. Despite the psychological and social benefits of sport participation, research has consistently shown that LGBTQ+ people face significant barriers in sports settings due to marginalisation and heteronormativity. The research draws on minority stress theory (Meyer, 2003), identity process theory (Breakwell, 1986) the psychological mediation framework (Hatzenbuehler, 2009), self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000), social identity theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979), and cognitive dissonance theory (Festinger, 1957). These theories will be integrated to propose a conceptual model to understand how these challenges manifest and are navigated by gay men. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 24 cisgender gay men who were active members of LGBTQ+ sports teams in the UK. Reflexive thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) was used to identify six key themes: (1) early expectations of sport engagement; (2) barriers to participation; (3) masculinity, identity, and sexuality; (4) LGBTQ+ teams as transformative spaces; (5) redefining relationship with sport; and (6) finding belonging in LGBTQ+ teams. Findings highlight the psychological impact of discrimination in sport and the potential of LGBTQ+ sport environments to support people with the impacts of this. The utility of the integrated conceptual model is supported by the findings and relevant literature. This study contributes to a growing body of literature highlighting the need for structural and cultural changes in sport to ensure accessibility, equity, and psychological safety for LGBTQ+ people.