Male players seek female athletic trainers only when they are depressed

Washington, July 14 (ANI): Male athletes prefer being treated by male athletic trainers for both gender-specific and non-gender specific injuries, but for depression they go for female assistance, revealed a new study.

A study from North Carolina State University examining male football players' perceptions of female athletic trainers - and their comfort level in being treated by females - shows that the quarterback would most likely prefer a male, unless the dislocated shoulder made him depressed.

"Previous research had shown that male and female athletes overall feel more comfortable with treatment by same-gender athletic trainers for gender-specific injuries and conditions. We wanted to specifically examine football players' comfort level by same and opposite sex athletic trainers for gender and non-gender-specific injuries - while seeing if gender stereotypes influenced opinions," said Dr. Heidi Grappendorf, assistant professor of parks, recreation and tourism management at NC State.

The study showed that male football players were more comfortable with treatment by a male athletic trainer for both gender-specific injuries - such as sports hernias - as well non-gender-specific injuries - like a dislocated shoulder.

When it came to general psychological conditions, there were no significant differences between a preference for a male or female trainer.

However, for the treatment of depression, there was a significant preference for female trainers.

Data were collected through questionnaires given to football players in two National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I programs.

Because there is a social stigma associated with depression, the potential exists that football players could be viewed as "weak" if they divulge that information to male athletic trainers, said the researchers.

In addition, because of their prescribed ideas about gender rolls, football players may find more comfort in talking to female trainers about depression.

"Over half of our participants described female athletic trainers using communal terms consistent with gender roles stereotypically attributed to women - such as caring, nurturing and affectionate. Clearly, we can see some prejudice based upon the gender of athletic trainers," said Caitlin O'Connor, who co-authored the paper. (ANI)

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