The sisters of sport psychology: An examination of the professional black female experience

Still an “Old Boys’ Club”? Certified Mental Performance Consultants’ Gender-Typed Sport Specialization and Employment Setting

“…Adding to previous qualitative evidence (Goldman & Gervis, 2021;Hyman et al, 2021;Krane & Whaley, 2010;Roper, 2002Roper, , 2008Roper et al, 2005;Whaley & Krane, 2012), this study generally supports the existence of gender typing and inequity in the current sport psychology workforce. In order to promote gender equity and inclusivity, particularly in masculine sports and professional sport settings, we echoed Forsyth et al (2019) and Shaw and Frisby (2006) to break down the internal and external barriers that female professionals face when pursuing a career in sport.…”

“…Another limitation pertains to the CMPC credential being the main source of credibility in the United States even though this credential is not legally required to conduct mental performance consultation (Sammet, 2021). Women, especially those of color, might be more likely to pursue the credential to appear credible, whereas men may assume credibility within the sport domain and do not feel the need to acquire the certification (Hyman et al, 2021). Therefore, the data in this study might not precisely reflect the current status of gender inclusion and equity among sport psychology professionals, and thus should be interpreted with caution before further studies.…”

“…Obtaining further evidence, such as the employment details in Meyers et al (2001), will add more nuance to the conversation about the current status of gender inequity in sport psychology employment. Studying the intersectionality between gender and race/ethnicity, as well as other identities, would also provide a more complete picture of the inequity status (Hyman et al, 2021). It is important to note that a similar proportion of male versus female CMPCs working in different settings does not represent equity, as they could differ in salary and job security in the same employment setting or even position.…”

“…Although the literature has shown gender typing and inequitable employment in sport, only qualitative data are available on applied sport psychology professionals (Goldman & Gervis, 2021;Hyman et al, 2021;Krane & Whaley, 2010;Roper, 2002Roper, , 2008Roper et al, 2005;Whaley & Krane, 2012). The purpose of this study was to add statistical evidence to complement female sport psychology professionals' experience and perceptions of gender and intersectional issues in the profession.…”