An exploratory study of factors influencing attitudes and behaviors toward LGBTQ athletes in China

This study examined the attitudes and behavior of collegiate student-athletes toward their LGBTQ counterparts in China. Utilizing a 15-item questionnaire derived from the tripartite model, findings from 191 participants were analyzed. Regression models showed that for negative behavior (use of homophobic language), the strongest predictors for males were team language norms (B = −0.67, t = −8.38, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.45). For females, the strongest predictors were team language norms (B = −0.68, t = −6.8, p < 0.001), contact experiences (B = −0.41, t = −2.16, p < 0.05), and Affective Component of Attitude (ACA) (B = −0.26, t = −2.36, p < 0.05). For positive behavior (allyship), the significant predictor for males was ACA (B = 0.32, t = 3.56, p < 0.001). For females, the significant predictors were team language norms (B = 0.20, t = 2.22, p < 0.05) and ACA (B = 0.50, t = 5.56, p < 0.001). The findings highlight the importance of enhancing team norms and facilitating positive affective contact in sports settings to promote inclusive team behaviors.