Machismo, misogyny, and homophobia in a male athletic subculture: a participant-observation study of deviant rituals in collegiate rugby

Sociological literature focusing on athletic subcultures is abundant; however, little exists that specifically addresses the deviant conduct inherent within these enclaves. Save a few select studies, this is especially true of male collegiate rugby in the United States. Collegiate rugby in the United States is considered by many to be an emerging sport; as such, little is known about the deviant conduct, both criminal and non-criminal, that is inherent within the subculture. Utilizing participant and non-participant observation over the course of several years, this study explores the ritualistic deviant conduct within the male collegiate rugby subculture. The behavior is framed in terms of a functional group phenomenon that appears to be largely perpetuated by the notions of homophobia, machismo, and misogyny. Variations of social learning theories are discussed as possible frameworks by which to examine this unique behavior in future analyses.