Gender Differences in Physical Education Textbooks in Spain: A Content Analysis of Photographs

The aim of this paper is to show how gender differences are portrayed in images featured in Physical Education textbooks for
secondary schools in Spain published between 2000 and 2006. The sample was composed of 2,724 images published in 36 textbooks
by 10 Spanish publishing houses. A content analysis was carried out through the elaboration of an ad hoc coding scheme. The
development of the coding scheme followed: two trial tests, two consultations with experts, and triangulation with three observers.
The variables of the study were: gender, type of physical activity, field of practice, space and level. The findings showed
a noticeable imbalance between male and female representation in which the male model is clearly predominant. In addition,
these images portray males and females in stereotypical roles and depict certain activities or sports as more appropriate
for one gender or the other. These findings further highlight the need to increase awareness regarding the image content in
textbooks and the necessity to work in order to overcome traditional gender stereotypes connected with physical education
and sport.