The Effects of Public Rejection of Athletes and Identity

Abstract

Previous research suggests that perceptions of rejection from the dominant racial group are associated with increased minority identification (Branscombe, et. al., Schmitt, & Harvey, 1999). This is known as the rejection identification model. These studies have found a positive association between perceptions of rejection and minority identification. Research has also found support for the rejection identification model across other contexts and among different groups (Giamo, et. al., 2012). With the rise of the Black Lives Matter Movement, many Black athletes have utilized their platform and spoken up politically to support the movement. This has led to a significant amount of backlash and criticism, especially the assessment that athletes should just "shut up and dribble". To this end, the purpose of the current study is twofold. First, the current study will explore Black athletes' general views about athletes speaking up politically and doing activist work. Second, the current study will evaluate the rejection identification model among Black athletes by experimentally manipulating public rejection of athletes. Former and current Black athletes were randomly assigned (through Qualtrics) to either the control group or the rejection group. Participants in the rejection group watched a video of a political pundit news anchor suggesting that athletes should stay out of politics. Participants in the control group were not exposed to the rejection manipulation but watched a video of a cooking demonstration. Both the control and rejection group then answered questions regarding their Black, athletic, and Black athlete identification questions. It was hypothesized that participants who are exposed to rejection will report higher levels of Black and Black athletic identity in comparison to those who aren't exposed to rejection. The athletic measure was explored more exploratively. No statistically significant differences were found between the control and rejection groups. Implications for the rejection identification model are discussed.