Date of Award

Spring 2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Communication Studies

Committee Chairperson

Meghan L Mahoney, PhD

Committee Member

Camilo Diaz Pino, PhD

Committee Member

Edward Lordan, PhD

Abstract

Sports are fraught with gender inequality and sexism. This research focuses on differences in public opinion regarding top athletes' personal social media. The study investigates gender differences in topic, gender differences in tone, gender differences in platform, and differences in sports. Additionally, it aims to explore the tone and topics of comments on Instagram and X. Using the methodology of content analysis, this study will examine comment tone (e.g. negative, positive, or neutral), as well as whether the topic of comments is sports-related or gender-related. Findings provide insight into gender differences in the treatment of athletes in the digital sphere.

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