Author(s): LIBERALI, G., FILOSA, A., TAMBURNOTTI, E., ZANETTI, M.A., MONTOMOLI, C., Institution: UNIVERSITY OF PAVIA, Country: ITALY, Abstract-ID: 1437

BACKGROUND
Prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender identity remains one of the most persistent forms of social exclusion in contemporary society. It often manifests through discrimination, stigmatization, and both psychological and physical violence. These dynamics are particularly evident in educational and sport contexts, which have historically been structured around by heteronormative norms and rigid gender roles. As a result, sport environments may function as risk settings for the reproduction and normalization of homophobia and transphobia.
This study aimed to investigate knowledge, opinions, and prejudices attitudes toward sexual orientation and gender identity among university students enrolled in Sport Sciences and Psychology degree programs at the University of Pavia.

METHODS
Students completed an anonymous online questionnaire including ad hoc items regarding homophobia and transphobia in sport and standardized validated psychometric instruments. Sexist attitudes will be measured using the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory. Attitudes toward transgender and gender non-conforming individuals will be measured using the Genderism and Transphobia Scale. Homophobic attitudes will be assessed using Homophobia Scale. Data were collected in August 2021.

RESULTS
84 participants (F=56) answered the questionnaire (median 23.0 yrs, IQR = 4.0). Median scores for ambivalent sexism were 2.0 (IQR = 0.6), indicating overall medium–low levels. Homophobia levels showed a median total score of 7.0 (IQR = 10.5), Transphobia scores were also generally low, with a total median of 1.5 (IQR = 1.0), 1.6 (IQR = 1.2) for genderism, and 1.0 (IQR = 0.6) for gender bashing. Despite these low self-reported attitudes, the majority of participants (73–75%) perceived homophobia and transphobia as prevalent issues in the sports context, particularly in disciplines such as soccer, boxing, and rugby. Moreover, while most respondents (85%) reported neither experiencing nor witnessing homophobic or transphobic incidents in sports settings, a minority (15%) indicated having witnessed such episodes, predominantly verbal in nature.

CONCLUSION
The findings indicate generally low levels of sexist, homophobic, and transphobic attitudes among the studied participants, alongside a high awareness of these issues within sport contexts. Despite limited direct exposure to discriminatory episodes, sport is still perceived as a setting where homophobia and transphobia persist, particularly in sports historically considered masculine within the Italian sociocultural context. These results highlight the need for targeted educational and preventive interventions within university training programs to promote inclusive and respectful, and safe sport environments.