Privileged to be on camera: Sports Broadcasters access the role of social identity in the professions

Drawing on a survey of sports broadcasters in top markets, the authors examine career paths of white men, women and racial minorities and their views on social identity, sports experience and other variables as influential. Most majored in journalism and had internship and campus media experience but did not have high-level sports experience. They generally believed that former athletes had an advantage, often unfair, in getting hired. Furthermore, those most privileged by gender (male) and race (white) least often acknowledged it. They were also less likely to believe women and minorities faced discrimination. Women and racial minorities were more likely to view their social identity as a reason they were hired.