The Stereotype of the African-American Male Athlete: Removing the Dumb Jock Stigma

Sports have been a fixture in the African American community for decades, in most cases, serving as an avenue for success and financial freedom for many. Sports have also been a social, emotional and physical outlet for these young athletes. However, sports also carry with it the “dumb jock” stereotype that has plagued many of our young athletes Brand (2008). To be an athlete is a form of social acceptance, and it begs the questions: Is it cool to be smart? Is it ok to behave respectfully? Is it acceptable to go against the norm? This forum aims to address the “dumb jock” mentality among young African American male athletes focusing on such topics as self-esteem, peer pressure, and psychological well-being. The presenters will provide a counter narrative to the dominant discourse of the stereotype that is often perceived of the African-American male athlete. The message to be conveyed is that it is ok to be a “smart jock” from stories of one of the presenters, studying Aerospace Engineering while playing baseball in college, to the other presenter playing high school basketball and learning early on to have a “backup” plan if playing basketball did not lead to receiving an athletic scholarship. Some of the learning objects for students are to learn to overcome the “dumb jock” label. Attendees will become more empowered to develop strong academic minds and eliminate such social stereotypes. Furthermore, Du Bois (1903) “Double Consciousness” theory and the examining of African-American males perception on intelligence from Williams (2009) will be integrated in the seminar. The workshop will also allow time for students, educators, and counselors in the audience to discuss their own experiences and how they have or will overcome these stereotypes