Competitive Adaptive Athletes Perceptions On Able-bodied Participation In Adaptive Sports

Abstract

PURPOSE: To assess the perception of able-bodied individuals participating in adaptive sports by competitive adaptive athletes. METHODS: This is a qualitative study using snowball sampling for recruitment. We surveyed 15 adaptive sports athletes, ranging from ages 18-53. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with audio recordings and subsequently transcribed. Data was analyzed for thematic patterns using Dedoose qualitative software. RESULTS: We find that adaptive sport athletes in our sample hold overwhelmingly positive attitudes towards able-bodied participation in adaptive sports. Increased awareness and inclusion of adaptive sports in the general community, and fostering positive attitudes towards the disabled community are the primarily stated reasons for the favorable view of able-bodied participants; with only one interviewee never discussing such reasons. Additionally, 80% of our sample discussed the positive recreational effects of able-bodied participation, allowing the sport to gain more recognition, participation, and bridge the divide that is created by the inherent exclusion of people with disabilities from able-bodied sports. While negative perceptions were far less discussed, the primary apprehensions adaptive sport athletes held on able-bodied participation is the “unfair advantage” able-bodied participants have over those with disabilities, with over two-thirds of our sample positing such a concern. The second largest concern, raised by 40% of our sample, was that able bodied participation in adaptive sports simply defeats the purpose of the space the disabled community has created for themselves. CONCLUSIONS: Competitive adaptive athletes overwhelmingly support the participation of able-bodied individuals in adaptive sports; however, prioritization in participation and competition should be given to adaptive athletes. In addition, adaptive athletes should be deeply involved in any effort that works to include able-bodied individuals in adaptive sports. Such a conversation prevents unequitable advantages and allows the disabled community to dictate the terms of what constitutes proper inclusion into their community.