“Gendered Risk Regimes”: A Theoretical Consideration of Edgework and Gender

Abstract

Recently, a number of researchers have drawn on Lyng’s (1990) theorization of the concept of edgework in explorations of voluntary risk activities in late modernity. Unfortunately, a theoretical consideration of how these edgework activities are gendered is underdeveloped in the edgework literature. In this article I outline the theories that have dominated edgework literature, critique the general oversight of a nuanced theory of gender in edgework, and highlight a sample of evidence showing that participation in “risk sports” (as one example of edgework) is a gendered experience. I also outline the concept of a “gendered risk regime” as a tool for exploring risk and gender as ongoing and intersecting constructions.

An existential phenomenological examination of parkour and freerunning

“…Because men and women experience risk-taking differently (Lois, 2005), this study used both male and female participants for a more diverse set of reflections on the subject. Indeed, Laurendeau's (2008) work on gender differences highlights the fact that the "construction of risk and construction of gender are always interwoven" (p. 305).…”

“…Importantly, Laurendeau (2008) recognized that thus far, only white, male, middle-class subjects have been examined in edgework sports, while womens' experiences are largely unknown. Laurendeau's work on gender differences highlights the fact that the "construction of risk and construction of gender are always interwoven" (2008, p. 305), and therefore, proposed a "theoretical consideration" for revising the edgework model to allow for a more nuanced insight of the motivations, experiences, and meaning for both men and women.…”

“…Laurendeau's work on gender differences highlights the fact that the "construction of risk and construction of gender are always interwoven" (2008, p. 305), and therefore, proposed a "theoretical consideration" for revising the edgework model to allow for a more nuanced insight of the motivations, experiences, and meaning for both men and women. Laurendeau's (2008) focus on "gendered risk regimes" adds to our understanding of dominant practices that shape the way that genders "do risk" (p. 301). Regardless of gender, however, participating in alternative/edgework sports is a process in which identities, individual and group relationships, and emotional intimacy are formed within specific communities (Laurendeau, 2008).…”

“…Laurendeau's (2008) focus on "gendered risk regimes" adds to our understanding of dominant practices that shape the way that genders "do risk" (p. 301). Regardless of gender, however, participating in alternative/edgework sports is a process in which identities, individual and group relationships, and emotional intimacy are formed within specific communities (Laurendeau, 2008). Although these factors may have greater appeal for women (versus men) who pursue edgework, Laurendeau (2008) contends that more research is needed to be conclusive.…”

Adventurous Physical Activity Environments: A Mainstream Intervention for Mental Health

“…The traditional theories that have been put forward to explain adventure participation are 'edgework' [11], sensation seeking [2,[12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20], Type 'T' personality [21] and psychoanalysis [22]. Edgework explains extreme sport participation from a sociological perspective by proposing that participants voluntarily navigate the edges of control in an effort to escape the routine and monotony of modern life [23].…”