Sociological theory applied to equal opportunities: Social benefits.

The idea

Social benefits are the positive effects that taking part in physical activity and sport can have on individuals and communities. They include meeting new people, building friendships, developing teamwork and cooperation, and strengthening a sense of belonging to a group or local area. Participation can also reduce isolation, improve social skills and encourage respect for others. For example, joining a weekly community netball session may help a new resident make friends, feel part of the neighbourhood and develop communication skills. These benefits are distinct from physical and psychological benefits, although they often overlap. In this section, social benefits are studied as one outcome of equal-opportunity provision, because fair access allows more people to experience them.

What earns the marks

• Social benefits are positive effects on relationships, group membership and community cohesion.
• Examples include making friends, meeting new people, developing teamwork and cooperation, and building a sense of belonging.
• Participation can reduce social isolation and improve social skills such as communication and respect for others.
• Social benefits are distinct from physical and psychological benefits, though they may occur together.
• Fair access and equal opportunity increase the number of people who can experience social benefits.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Confusing social benefits with physical benefits.

  Put it right: Social benefits concern relationships and group belonging, not improvements in fitness or health.

• Confusing social benefits with psychological benefits.

  Put it right: Social benefits focus on interaction with others, while psychological benefits concern individual thoughts and feelings.

• Assuming social benefits are automatic.

  Put it right: They depend on the quality of the environment and the opportunity to interact, not simply on taking part.

• Treating social benefits as only for young people.

  Put it right: People of all ages can gain friendship, belonging and social contact through sport.

Exam tips

• Read the question carefully to check whether it asks for social, physical or psychological benefits, and select the option that matches the category.
• Eliminate options that describe fitness, skill or personal feelings rather than relationships or group membership.
• Use the phrase 'sense of belonging' or 'social interaction' to confirm an option is about social benefits.