[originaltext] One job of an athletic trainer is to treat injured athletes.

One job of an athletic trainer is to treat injured athletes. But does it make a difference if the trainer is male or female? Sometimes, yes, if an injury or condition is a "male problem" or a "female problem." Then athletes say they are more likely to receive treatment given by someone of their own sex. But what about a problem that could affect either sex like a dislocated shoulder? In a study, researchers at North Carolina State University asked some male football players at two American colleges. The study found that those players would still probably choose a male trainer—unless the injury made them feel depressed. Then they would most likely choose a female trainer. The researchers offer two possible explanations. (27)They say football players might be seen as weak if they talk about their depression with a male trainer. Also, over half the players described female trainers with words like caring and nurturing. The researchers say this shows that "gender stereotypes" have influenced the opinions of the players about women. They say the concern is that players might see the training room as not the place even for well-qualified women. Trainers are an important part of an athlete’s life. (28) But an organization based in California is working with coaches to help influence boys to show more respect toward girls and women. Written materials are also being provided to other countries through UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund. Brian O’Connor of the Family Violence Prevention Fund says young men need guidelines in how to treat young women—in person or online.
26. What does the athletic trainer do according to the passage?
27. Why would the male players choose a female trainer?
28. What is the organization in California doing according to the passage?