Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2007
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Communication Studies and Theatre
Abstract
This study examines interpersonal communication within a high school girls' varsity basketball team in a small midwestem town. Utilizing ethnography, ethnographic interviews, and self-reflection journals completed by the participants during eight regular season games, the study extends research done in small group communication, specifically in an athletic team. Findings indicate that conflict occurring within this team is often confronted in the "back-stage", non-public interactions of the players. Other emergent themes allow for an examination of intergroup, intra-group, and intrapersonal conflict, non-verbal and verbal communication among the players, coach-player relationships, and leadership. In addition, this study offers insight into the presence and behavior of a farrago (Schell & Stohl, 1991), role development, and communication between the participants regularly on the bench. A discussion of limitations and suggestions for future research are also included.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Communication in sports
High school athletes
Women basketball players
Interpersonal communication
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
185
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Gronewold, Katherine L., "Female-to-Female On The Court : An Ethnographic Study of Athletic Communication in a Girls' Varsity Basketball Team" (2007). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1389.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/1389