The functionalist and conflict perspectives focus on the macro level , or large-scale patterns within societies and institutions. The interactionist perspective is micro-level sociology. This perspective looks at social interaction on a small-scale. Athletes serve as role models for children and youth. Sports provide an outlet for relieving tension in a socially acceptable way for both players and spectators.
Sports promote solidarity, binding communities and nations together.
Sports promote good health and well being. Sports can also be dysfunctional, overemphasizing winning to the neglect of the academic achievement of college students and the good health and well being of players. Sports discriminate against women and minorities. The following examples reflect the conflict perspective. Sports reflect patterns of social inequality in society, since some are so expensive that they exclude all but the relatively wealthy.