From one minority to the other... sports activity, visibility and social integration of stigmatized groups

Within the general framework of analyzing the process of social integration of stigmatized groups, we present a study on the collective dimension of t he logic behind integration. Through a comparative analysis of the developm ent of four stigmatized sports groups in France (the physically handicapped , sight and hearing impaired, homosexuals), the authors present a diachroni c perspective on the inner struggles and conflicts revolving around the clo sedness or openness of these groups. This research provides a model for the social integration process which stresses the full importance of the dynam ics of interaction with "normal people" and temporality. In conclusion, the author seeks to understand why these active minorities have chosen sports as a means of 'destigmatization'.