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Are Big-Time Sports a Threat to Student Achievement?

Author

Listed:
  • Jason M. Lindo
  • Isaac D. Swensen
  • Glen R. Waddell

Abstract

We consider the relationship between collegiate football success and non-athlete student performance. We find that the team's success significantly reduces male grades relative to female grades, and only in fall quarters, which coincides with the football season. Using survey data, we find that males are more likely than females to increase alcohol consumption, decrease studying, and increase partying in response to the success of the team. Yet, females also report that their behavior is affected by athletic success, suggesting that their performance is likely impaired but that this effect is masked by the practice of grade curving. (JEL I21, L83)

Suggested Citation

  • Jason M. Lindo & Isaac D. Swensen & Glen R. Waddell, 2012. "Are Big-Time Sports a Threat to Student Achievement?," American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, American Economic Association, vol. 4(4), pages 254-274, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejapp:v:4:y:2012:i:4:p:254-74
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/app.4.4.254
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • L83 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Sports; Gambling; Restaurants; Recreation; Tourism

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    This item is featured on the following reading lists, Wikipedia, or ReplicationWiki pages:
    1. Are Big-Time Sports a Threat to Student Achievement? (American Economic Journal: Applied Economics 2012) in ReplicationWiki

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