Understanding the determinants of the gender gap in physical activity and sports participation among young adults: a mixed-methods study

Background An underexplored gender gap in physical activity (PA) and sport participation (SP) exists in those aged 18–24 in Ireland, with females less active than males. This research explored the determinants of PA and SP in both males and females through the lens of the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) model and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), to enhance our understanding of the gender gap. A mixed methods design was employed involving (1) a quantitative secondary analysis of existing data from the Irish Sports Monitor (ISM) 2019, an evaluation of Irish SP and PA conducted biennially by Sport Ireland, the governing body for sport development in the country, and (2) qualitative semi-structured interviews to explore determinants of PA and SP, using a framework analysis approach. Methods A secondary analysis of existing ISM 2019 data from 158 individuals was conducted to explore gender differences in PA and SP behaviours in relation to capability, opportunity, and motivation. To further explore these differences, individuals (n = 16, 75% female) aged 18–24 were then invited to take part in semi-structured interviews to better understand determinants of their PA and SP behaviours and explore their experiences of the gender gap. Results Despite the gender gap identified through the ISM 2019, a secondary analysis found no significant difference between genders on predictors of PA and SP based on overall COM-B scores. However, semi-structured interviews suggested gender differences regarding self-reported determinants of PA and SP, particularly within the domain of social influence. Conclusions Social influence may be an important factor to target, particularly in relation to perceived support and encouragement, to increase female engagement in PA and SP. More research is required to explore this potentiality.