Acculturation challenges and sport participation success of young Muslim women in the multicultural Australian context

Research Note

By Drs Jae Won Kang*, Feras Orekat, Esther Chaderopa and Trevor Clark

*Corresponding author, ICMS Program Manager

Introduction

Australia’s multicultural identity has evolved significantly, with increasing diversity reflected in its growing Muslim population. The 2021 Census reported over 813,000 Muslims, accounting for 3.2% of the population [1]. Young Muslim women in Australia often navigate the complexities of maintaining their cultural and religious values while attempting to integrate into mainstream society [2]. This struggle is particularly evident in public spaces, such as sports, where societal expectations and cultural norms can create significant barriers to participation. Research has shown that these barriers include concerns about modesty, lack of culturally appropriate facilities, and potential discrimination or misunderstanding from peers and organisations [3, 4].

Sport participation is recognised for its ability to promote social cohesion, personal development, and community engagement [5]. However, for young Muslim women, the cultural expectations surrounding modesty, gender interactions, and religious practices often conflict with conventional sports settings [3]. This review explores how acculturation, defined by Berry [6] as the process of adapting to a host society while maintaining cultural identity, influences the sport participation of young female Muslims in Australia’s multicultural context [7]. The review also explores strategies to foster inclusive practices that address these challenges and create equitable opportunities for participation.

Methods

This narrative review of literature synthesises findings from peer-reviewed journals regarding acculturation and inclusivity in sport participation. Searches were conducted in databases such as JSTOR, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using the search terms ‘Muslim women in sports’, ‘acculturation in sport participation’, and ‘cultural barriers in sports’. Inclusion criteria focused on studies published between 2020 and 2023 to ensure relevance, supplemented by foundational works for theoretical context.

Results

A thematic analysis of the 20 selected peer-reviewed articles revealed four primary themes:

1. Cultural and religious barriers impacting participation.
2. Community expectations influencing engagement in sports.
3. Institutional limitations hindering access and support.
4. Importance of inclusive programming tailored to the needs of young Muslim women to foster greater involvement in sports.

Cultural and religious expectations significantly influence young Muslim women’s participation in sport [4]. Islamic principles adopted in different cultures regarding modesty, particularly in dress and interactions with the opposite gender, are key factors shaping their involvement.

Many Muslim women report discomfort with standard sports attire, such as shorts or sleeveless tops, which conflict with their cultural values in Australia. The lack of accommodations, such as modest sportswear or female-only spaces, further exacerbates exclusion [8].

Gender segregation is another critical issue. Many Muslim families perceive mixed-gender sports environments as incompatible with Islamic teachings, discouraging women from participating [3].

Discussion

The findings suggest providing culturally sensitive programs is essential for supporting young Muslim women’s participation in sports. Adaptations such as modest sportswear and female-only spaces address concerns about modesty and gender mixing, creating an environment that aligns with Islamic principles [9]. Additionally, coaches and sports facilitators need training in cultural sensitivity to bridge gaps between policy and practice, fostering an inclusive environment³.

Engaging families and community leaders in the planning and implementation of sports programs is critical for overcoming cultural resistance. This approach builds trust and demonstrates that sports participation can coexist with religious values². Highlighting the achievements of Muslim female athletes as role models also helps challenge stereotypes and encourages young women to participate in sports³.

Increasing the representation of Muslim women in leadership roles within sports organisations is vital for fostering inclusivity. Relatable role models provide participants with visible examples of successful integration, inspiring greater engagement. These role models can also contribute to policy development by offering insights into the needs of young Muslim women.

Limitations

This literature review underscores the complex challenges young Muslim women face in sport education, shaped by cultural, religious, community, and institutional factors. However, addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including culturally responsive programming, community engagement, policy reforms, and the promotion of role models and safe spaces. These strategies can transform sport education into a powerful tool for social integration and personal development, ultimately enhancing the educational outcomes and societal inclusion of young Muslim women in Australia. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the effectiveness of these interventions and explore additional strategies for fostering inclusivity in sport participation. Such efforts will contribute to the broader goal of creating an equitable and multicultural Australian society.

Conclusion

This study highlights the acculturation challenges young Muslim women face within Australian sport context, identifying cultural, religious, community, and institutional factors that impact participation. Cultural expectations and religious beliefs often restrict young Muslim women’s access to sports, creating barriers that limit their opportunities for social integration and sport success. Our findings emphasise the need for culturally responsive practices, community engagement, and institutional support to promote inclusivity and representation within the sport system.

Acknowledgements

The authors declare no conflict of interest. This paper was derived from a presentation given by the authors at the 2024 Asian Sport Management Conference, with funding supported by a Scholarly Practice Grant at the International College of Management, Sydney.

References

[1] Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2022, June 27). 2021 Census shows changes in Australia’s religious diversity [Media release]. ABS. https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/2021-census-shows-changes-australias-religious-diversity.

[2] Cheng, J. E. (2019). Religiosity, integration and sport: Muslim women playing Australian Rules Football. Journal of Australian Studies, 43(1), 55–70. https://doi.org/10.1080/14443058.2019.1577287

[3] Ahmad, N., Richards, J., Scott, H., & Marfell, A. (2020). Building cultural inclusion in sport: Insights from Muslim women in sport and active recreation. The University of Waikato. https://sportnz.org.nz/media/3379/building-cultural-inclusion-in-sport_final-17-7.pdf

[4] Ahmed, E., & Karam, A. (2021). The role of cultural identity in the sport participation of Muslim women in Australia. International Journal of Sport Management and Marketing, 21(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsm.27.6.467

[5] Benn, T., Pfister, G., & Jawad, H. A. (2011). Muslim women and sport. Routledge.

[6] Berry, J. W. (2005). Acculturation: Living successfully in two cultures. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 29(6), 697-712. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2005.07.001

[7] Hosper, K., Klazinga, N. S., & Stronks, K. (2007). Acculturation does not necessarily lead to increased physical activity during leisure time: A cross-sectional study among Turkish young people in the Netherlands. BMC Public Health, 7, 230.  https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-7-230

[8] Maxwell, H., Foley, C., Taylor T., & Burton, C. (2013). Social inclusion in community sport: A case study of Muslim women in Australia. Journal of Sport Management, 27(6), 467-481. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsm.27.6.467

[9] Thorpe, H., Ahmad, N., & Marfell, A. (2020). Muslim women’s sporting spatialities: Navigating culture, religion and moving bodies in Aotearoa New Zealand. Gender, Place & Culture, 29(1), 52-79. https://doi.org/10.1080/0966369X.2020.1855123