What is a commonly cited consequence of myths about lesbians in sports?

What is a commonly cited consequence of myths about lesbians in sports?

• A. They lead to silence and harassment of LGBTQ athletes.
• B. They increase funding for women's leagues.
• C. They improve visibility of lesbian athletes.
• D. They eliminate discrimination.

Answer: (A)

Myths about lesbians in sports create stigma that leads to silence and harassment of LGBTQ athletes. When false stories frame lesbian athletes as a problem or a threat, individuals may fear coming out, speaking up about unfair treatment, or simply participating openly, and they can face hostile comments or exclusion from peers, coaches, or fans. This hostile climate harms safety, belonging, and performance, and it keeps discrimination alive rather than resolving it. The other options don’t fit because stereotypes about lesbians don’t reliably increase funding or visibility, and they do not eliminate discrimination; in fact, they tend to reinforce stigma and exclusion.

Myths about lesbians in sports create stigma that leads to silence and harassment of LGBTQ athletes. When false stories frame lesbian athletes as a problem or a threat, individuals may fear coming out, speaking up about unfair treatment, or simply participating openly, and they can face hostile comments or exclusion from peers, coaches, or fans. This hostile climate harms safety, belonging, and performance, and it keeps discrimination alive rather than resolving it. The other options don’t fit because stereotypes about lesbians don’t reliably increase funding or visibility, and they do not eliminate discrimination; in fact, they tend to reinforce stigma and exclusion.