Negotiating the status of women’s football in Norway. An analysis of online supporter discourses
A summary of the article:
The article "Negotiating the Status of Women’s Football in Norway: An Analysis of Online Supporter Discourses" examines how supporters of men’s football in Norway discuss and evaluate women’s football in online forums. Despite the success of Norway’s women’s national team, women's football still receives limited media attention and attracts fewer spectators compared to men's football. Through discourse analysis, the article identifies two main narratives: a dominant discourse that frames football as inherently masculine and undermines women's football through comparisons with men's football, and a counter-discourse that advocates for women’s football to be valued on its own merits. The dominant discourse often trivializes and sexualizes women’s football, treating it as inferior and not deserving of equal recognition.
The counter-discourse, however, challenges these perspectives by arguing for the right of women to play and be respected in football on equal terms with men. While this counter-discourse is present, it is often overshadowed by the more widespread and entrenched attitudes that position men’s football as the standard. The article concludes that women’s football in Norway remains caught in a cycle where its lack of recognition and resources hinders its ability to grow, perpetuating its marginalized status.
Key Takeaways:
Masculine dominance: The dominant discourse treats football as inherently masculine, often comparing women's football unfavorably to men's football.
Trivialization and sexualization: Women’s football is trivialized and sexualized in online discussions, reinforcing its perceived inferiority to men's football.
Counter-discourse: There is a counter-discourse advocating for women's football to be respected on its own terms, but it struggles to overcome deeply ingrained gender biases
Authors: Arve Hjelseth & Jorid Hovden
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