According to the material, privatization of sport programs is likely to have what effect on girls and women's participation?

• A. Increase participation opportunities due to market competition
• B. No significant effect on participation
• C. Decrease participation opportunities
• D. Make participation mandatory in new leagues

Answer: (C)

Privatization shifts sport programs from publicly funded, subsidized access to private, market-driven offerings. When programs rely on fees, variable schedules, and profit motives, participation becomes more sensitive to price and convenience. Girls and women—who often face cost barriers, caregiving responsibilities, and fewer subsidized options—are more likely to see fewer opportunities as providers prioritize revenue and commercially viable activities. So privatization tends to reduce participation opportunities for girls and women. While private providers can sometimes raise quality or innovation, the material suggests access and equity can decline under privatization, rather than universal improvement or mandatory participation.