Identity Construction and Socialisation in a University Football team.

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Author
Black, Liam
Date
2015Type
Dissertation
Publisher
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The following study aimed to explore how the identities of male university footballers
were constructed and how the values and beliefs of the club affected them. An
ethnographical approach was used to collect data, generating observational field
notes from social events, training sessions and match days. Semi-structured
interviews were also produced to gain rich information regarding the participants’
experiences of identity construction. An additional focus group was conducted to
present a discussion, in an attempt to highlight the different views represented by
members in different positons on the hierarchical scale within the club. The
interviews and focus group were then transcribed and analysed using thematic
analysis, producing four main themes: First Impressions; Hierarchy and Traditions of
the club; Sharing experiences with others and the impact of knowing people and
Acceptance Criteria. Previous literature of Goffman (1969), Donnelly and Young
(1988) and Parker (2001) presented a guidance into interpreting the data. This
framework helped to reveal that individuals go through a process of socialisation
where the values and beliefs of a subculture are learnt, resulting in identity being
reshaped to agree with both the official and unofficial norms. Future research should
examine the presocialisation stage where candidates attempt to gain information
about a subculture prior to joining it. This will highlight the process individuals go
through during this stage and the impact this has on overall acceptance.