Perceived Myths and Truths About Women's Participation in Sports and Their Effects on Participation Levels in Sierra Leone

Abstract

**Background:** Perceived myths about women's participation in sports remain a significant barrier to gender equity in athletic engagement, particularly in sub-Saharan African contexts. This study investigated the perceived myths and truths about women's participation in sports and assessed their effects on participation levels in Bo and Kenema cities, Sierra Leone.

**Methods:** A descriptive survey research design with mixed-methods approach was adopted. A total sample of 350 respondents was drawn using simple random sampling from female athletes (n = 280), coaches (n = 50), and parents (n = 20) in Bo and Kenema cities. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and inferential statistics including one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient. Qualitative data were analysed using Thematic Content Analysis. Instrument reliability was established at Pearson's r = 0.82 (test-retest) and Cronbach's α = 0.79.

**Results:** Findings revealed that 88.2% (n = 149) of athlete respondents confirmed the existence of perceived myths about women in sports. The most prevalent myths included the belief that sports cause barrenness (18.6%), loss of femininity/masculinization (17.1%), disruption of the menstrual cycle (17.1%), and loss of virginity (11.4%). One-way ANOVA revealed a significant difference in myth belief across age groups \[F(3, 165) = 8.461, p < 0.001\], with younger athletes (10-26 years) exhibiting higher myth adherence (92.0%-94.5%) compared to older athletes (26-34 years: 78.6%; 34-42 years: 25.0%). A significant positive correlation was found between myth belief and reduced participation levels (r = 0.226, t = 2.945, p < 0.01). Gender-based discrimination was experienced by 81.7% of respondents. Cultural norms were identified as playing a major role in perpetuating myths by 55.0% of respondents, with cultural norms significantly correlated with media coverage perceptions (r = 0.364, t = 5.051, p < 0.001).

**Conclusion:** Perceived myths significantly hinder women's sports participation in Bo and Kenema cities through reinforcement of gender stereotypes, social stigma, and reduced institutional support. Evidence-based myth-busting campaigns, female role model visibility, and gender-sensitive sports policies are urgently needed to improve participation levels.