Developing Programmes to Promote Participation in Sport among Adolescents with Disabilities: Perceptions Expressed by a Group of South African Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Adolescents with disabilities in developing countries frequently have limited access to sporting opportunities and comparatively little is known of their lived experiences and preferences. We set out to understand what a group of adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) living in South Africa perceive to be important components of programmes developed to increase their participation in sport. We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 adolescents with CP. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Congruent with existing research, our findings suggest that sporting programmes should allow participants choice, provide physical challenges and present opportunities to socialise and experience mastery. Participants ask for: variety and a wider range of sports; greater recognition; coaching; and competition within programmes which are inclusive and fair. The data highlights the need for advocacy work and draws attention to the challenges of responding to participants’ requests when developing sports programmes for adolescents with disabilities in resource-scarce countries.