Functionalist Theory of Sport Psychology
Functionalist theory is a macro sociological theory that is
based on the characteristics of social patterns, structures, social systems and
institutions such as family, education, religion, leisure, the economy, media,
politics and sport. If all these social institutions are organized and
co-operate with one another around a set of core values functionalist theorists
assume that the entire social system will function properly and efficiently.
Society in functionalism has a view that it is an organized system of
interrelated parts that are held together by shared values and established
social arrangements that help maintain the system in being in a state of
equilibrium and balance. When sociologists use functionalist theory they split
it into two parts, the first concept of interdependent parts is all of the
social institutions (media, religion, sports, politics and economics) and how
they are linked together.
Using Functionalist Theory to take
social action
Promote
the development and growth of organized sports
Increase
sport participation opportunities to foster individual development
Increase
the supervision and control of athletes
Mandate
coaching education programs
Highlight
success in elite programs
Weaknesses of Functionalist Theory
Overstates
the positive consequences of sport in society
Assumes
that all social groups benefit equally from sports
Does
not recognize that sports are social constructions that
privilege
or disadvantage some people more than others
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