Marjorie Berns, Dr. Luisa Liekefett and Prof. Dr. Julia Becker from Osnabrück University played a leading role in the publication. Lara Kronenbitter and Tina Nobis from the University of Wuppertal were involved. The results have now been published in two articles, in the journal Ethnic and Racial Studies and in a report by the Berlin Institute for Integration and Migration Research.
"The study focuses on the phenomenon of so-called racist stacking," explains Marjorie Berns. "It describes the tendency for white players to be deployed more frequently in strategically central positions such as goalkeeper, while black players disproportionately often occupy physically demanding positions such as forward or wing," adds Julia Becker.
The researchers were able to prove this pattern experimentally: In one study, participants were asked to rate the suitability of a soccer player for various positions - based solely on a photo that showed either a white or a black player. The result: Black players were rated significantly more often as suitable for athletic positions such as forward or wing, while white players were more likely to be suitable for the goalkeeper position, which is more strongly associated with cognitive abilities.
In other studies, participants were given additional information about the players' performance parameters, such as their speed. This showed that as soon as objective performance data was available, the differences in evaluation disappeared - an indication that racist stereotypes are particularly effective when concrete information is lacking.
"The results make it clear that deeply rooted racist stereotypes - such as the assumption that black people are physically superior while white people are considered more intelligent - can still influence decisions in sport today," explains Marjorie Berns. The researchers therefore emphasize the importance of transparent performance evaluations and recommend openly addressing racism in soccer. Raising awareness among coaches, trainers and officials could help to identify and dismantle discriminatory thought patterns.
The project is part of the Discrimination and Racism Research Network (FoDiRa) of the Research Association of the German Center for Integration and Migration Research (DeZIM) and was funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ).
Further information for editorial offices:
Prof. Dr. Julia Becker, Osnabrück University
Institute of Psychology
E-mail: julia.becker@uni-osnabrueck.de
