A look back at 2002 study on the benefits of Gay Games participation

We just stumbled across a 2002 paper published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, entitled: "Social Psychological Benefits of Gay Games Participation: A Social Identity Theory Explanation" and based on research done among women participating in Gay Games V. Here's an extract:

Another common theme that emerged from the data was the positive memories that participants would take back with them. Participants summarized this point in saying, “I leave with some amazing memories” and “a memory to hang on to for life.” On one hand, positive memories may be considered a fairly benign effect of participation. Yet on the other hand, these memories may help sustain the immediate effects of participation on their personal and social identities. As one athlete stated, “[The Gay Games] will be a lasting memory in my life forever. [I] will always savor this week!!”

Read in full HERE.