The Thematic Evolution of Sports Journalism's Narrative of Mental Illness: A Little Less Conversation

The book "The Thematic Evolution of Sports Journalisms Narrative of Mental Illness: A Little Less Conversation" explores how sports journalists have covered mental illness in professional athletes over time, evolving from sensationalization to inconvenience to a focus on athletes' bravery in discussing their experiences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 454 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

The Thematic Evolution of Sports Journalisms Narrative of Mental Illness: A Little Less Conversation is a thought-provoking book that delves into the evolving narrative surrounding professional athletes' experiences with mental illness. The author, Ronald Bishop, argues that this conversation has progressed through three distinct stages, each characterized by a primary theme.

In the first stage, which spanned from the end of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century, sports journalists sensationalized the issue, portraying athletes with mental illness as tragic figures. These journalists often resorted to exaggerated and sensationalized language, exaggerating the severity of the athletes' conditions and presenting them as helpless victims. This portrayal contributed to the stigmatization and marginalization of mental illness in sports.

The second stage, which occurred during the roughly two-decade period between the end of the 19th century and the mid-20th century, saw a shift in the narrative. Athletes' experiences with mental illness were no longer solely sensationalized but were also portrayed as an inconvenience that perplexed and infuriated team officials. These officials, lacking the ability and inclination to address the issue, often disregarded or dismissed the athletes' concerns, leaving them to cope with their mental health problems on their own.

The third and final stage, which has emerged in recent years and continues to evolve, is particularly noteworthy. This stage is characterized by the development and widespread adoption of a coverage template that centers around an athlete's brave decision to reveal and discuss their experiences with mental illness. Bishop argues that this shift represents a significant milestone in the evolution of sports journalism, as it allows for a more nuanced and empathetic portrayal of athletes who have faced mental health challenges.

Through a combination of historical research and narrative analysis, Bishop interrogates whether sports journalists have finally begun to cover the experience of mental illness with sufficient depth. This book holds particular interest for scholars in media studies, journalism, celebrity studies, and sports psychology, as it provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics between sports, media, and mental health.

In conclusion, The Thematic Evolution of Sports Journalisms Narrative of Mental Illness: A Little Less Conversation is a thought-provoking and important book that sheds light on the evolving narrative surrounding professional athletes' experiences with mental illness. By examining the historical progression of this conversation, Bishop challenges the dominant narratives and provides a more nuanced and empathetic perspective on the issue. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of sports journalism and media studies, and it is sure to inspire further discussions and research in this area.

Weight: 771g
Dimension: 235 x 156 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666927627