An Overview of Paralympic Sport from a Historical and Psychosocial Perspective

Abstract

The Paralympic Olympic Games initiated within the framework of the Paralympic movement is not well known by the society. Understanding the psychological characteristics of para-athletes and revealing their social position will contribute to coaches, managers and all sports professionals working with these athletes. Based on this idea, in this study, the concept of Paralympics is defined, the history of the Paralympic Olympic Games and statistical information in these games are included, and the psychosocial characteristics of athletes who operate in sports environments as para-athletes are discussed. A narrative based literature review was preferred as a methodology in the study. As a result of the research, it has been seen that para sports have progressed rapidly over the years since the first day of its emergence in the historical process. When the psychological characteristics of para athletes are examined, it is understood that para athletes do sports for reasons such as performing well and winning, looking normal, adapting to injury, defending themselves, fighting against marginalization and encouraging the disabled sports movement. It has been stated that para-athletes who are emotionally stable, have cognitive flexibility and mental endurance, are self-confident, can manage stress and control their emotions are more successful in sports. It has been stated that social support is important for para-athletes when they start sports, but an overprotective structure may negatively affect the psychosocial development of para-athletes. In addition, coaches' communication and leadership skills are important for para-athletes to be successful in sports and persistence in sports.