Perceived differences in self-reported problems with sexual harassment, racial prejudice, and drug misuse amoung USNA varsity athletes

Abstract

This thesis examines perceptions regarding sexual harassment, racial prejudice and drug misuse among USNA varsity athletes. Based on previous research, it was hypothesized that both gender and minority status would be predictive of perceptions regarding these behaviors among midshipmen and midshipmen athletes. The thesis also explores the relationship between indicators of athletic participation and experiences and perceptions regarding sexual harassment, racial prejudice and drug misuse. Data from 2735 midshipmen who responded to the USNA Values Survey and 723 midshipmen-athletes who responded to the NAAA Exit Survey were used for analyses. Results of regression analyses indicate that both gender and ethnicity were significant predictors of sexual harassment and racial prejudice but not drug misuse. Athletic status did significantly influence perceptions. Implications of these findings are discussed for