Exploring the Reasons for Non-Participation in Sports: A Case Study of Transgenders in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the factors that contribute to the non-participation of transgender individuals in sports. Despite the recognized benefits of sports participation, such as improved physical and mental health, transgender individuals are less likely to participate in sports due to various barriers. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for this study, and a purposive sample of 118 individuals with a mean age of 22 was selected using snowball sampling. The researchers developed and pilot-tested a questionnaire to collect data on the factors contributing to non-participation in sports among transgender individuals. The study findings revealed that almost all transgender individuals recognized the importance of sports participation in their lives. However, different factors, including societal, governmental, and personal characteristics, significantly contributed to their non-participation in sports. The results of this study suggest the need for legislative and policy interventions to address the societal and governmental factors that hinder transgender individuals' sports participation. Policymakers should prioritize creating safe and inclusive sports environments and implementing policies and programs to support transgender individuals' sports participation which can improve their overall health and wellbeing and promote social inclusion. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to address barriers to sports participation among transgender individuals.