“It's Always Good to have a Beer with your Teammates”: Alcohol Consumption and Hegemonic Masculinity within Community Sports Clubs in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

<p>Traditionally, males have been dominant in community sports and have consumed alcohol at higher rates when compared to other genders in Aotearoa. A theory, developed by Connell, known as hegemonic masculinity has been linked to alcohol consumption practices as well as being involved in sports, including competitive sports. Hegemonic masculinity is a social and cultural construct that upholds a status hierarchy, favouring those who follow the dominant consensus around gender, by promoting masculinities and oppressing femininities. Western ideals have led to a version of hegemonic masculinity that values attributes and behaviours such as being unconcerned with health and prioritising being strong over seeking help. This research aimed to explore how hegemonic masculinity and alcohol consumption function within New Zealand community sports clubs. In this study, 12 participants (10 males, 2 females, aged 23-56), who belonged to sports clubs within the Greater Wellington Region, undertook semi-structured individual interviews with the researcher. Following transcription, the data were analysed thematically. The analysis identified three main themes, namely pervasiveness: alcohol is everywhere in the club space, masculine behaviours dominate the club space, and feeling alienated within the club. Each main theme, and their 10 subthemes, were interrelated and highlighted how the pervasive nature of alcohol within the club was upheld by the dominance of masculinity, which ultimately led to feelings of alienation for some members. Findings reinforce that hegemonic masculinity and alcohol consumption remain pervasive within male-dominated community sports settings, which subordinates those who do not conform to the status quo. This is preserved by current formal hierarchies that favour dominant groups within this space. Furthermore, conforming to dominant practices has become a mechanism for belonging and determines what behaviours are deemed appropriate. Harmful behaviours that were related to hegemonic masculinity were exacerbated by alcohol consumption. Policymakers and future researchers must seek ways to change the current power dynamics and drinking practices, which are perpetuated by hegemonic masculine norms, to promote a more inclusive and safer space for all members.</p>