{
  "id": 9649046,
  "title": "What is not perceived as abuse in youth sports may be part of sexual violence",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/what-is-not-perceived-as-abuse-in-youth-sports-may-be-part-of-sexual",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-24T23:20:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Phys.org",
    "slug": "phys-org",
    "url": "https://phys.org/news/2026-09-abuse-youth-sports-sexual-violence.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The phenomenon of sexual violence against minors in sports is often overlooked, despite evidence suggesting it is not an isolated issue. A study by the GIKAFIT research group at EHU in the Basque Country reveals that 20% of participants experienced sexualized behavior from their coaches, such as kissing, expressions of sexual interest, and proposals for sexual relations. However, the general public is often surprised to learn about this issue, as it is considered a taboo subject. The researchers aim to shed light on the reality of this problem and prevent future occurrences.\n\nThrough their research, the team identified a \"gray zone\" where athletes perceive many behaviors as non-abusive, even though survivors retrospectively identify these same behaviors as part of sexual violence. The study surveyed 292 athletes and conducted six interviews with survivors who experienced sexual violence during their school years. While more than 80% of questionnaire respondents recognized explicit sexual behaviors as sexual violence, less overt behaviors were rarely classified as such.\n\nBehaviors such as hugging, asking about leisure time, offering individual attention, and creating opportunities for one-on-one contact were often not perceived as sexual violence. However, the testimonies of those who experienced sexual violence revealed that these less explicit, more normalized behaviors can be part of a grooming process if repeated, personalized, linked to secrecy, or embedded in unequal power relations. The study emphasizes that the context is crucial in determining whether such behaviors are abusive or criminal.\n\nThe researchers do not aim to eliminate the closeness inherent in sports activities or target coaches as potential perpetrators. Instead, they recognize that sports instruction requires trust and physical contact, which can make it more challenging for athletes to distinguish between harmless behaviors and those that cross boundaries. The study underscores the importance of education for athletes, as well as training for sports professionals, to promote safe sports environments with transparent relationships and safeguards for one-on-one contact.",
  "summary": "Sexual violence against minors in sports is a reality that goes largely unnoticed, despite data suggesting it is not an isolated phenomenon. According to a report by the GIKAFIT research group at EHU in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, 20% of participants had experienced behavior of a sexual nature from their coaches, including kissing on the lips, expressions of sexual interest…",
  "key_points": [
    "General public often surprised by this issue, considering it taboo.",
    "Behaviors like hugging and one-on-one contact may not be perceived as sexual violence."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}