A case study analysis of differing barriers to sport participation faced by athletes with acquired and congenital disabilities

Abstract

Individuals affected by some form of disability face difficulties when looking to participate in sporting activity. Previous research has highlighted a number of possible prohibiting factors including, a lack of parental support, inaccessible venues and unavailability of required specialist equipment. The objectives of the research study were to, firstly identify and explain the different barriers to sports participation affecting individuals with acquired and congenital disabilities, and secondly to ascertain the benefits and areas for development required by national governing bodies and sports organisations to ensure a greater number of individuals with disabilities could participate. Six male participants were selected (3 with congenital and 3 with acquired disabilities), including: Muscular Dystrophy, Visual Impairment, Achondroplasia, Illness Related Disabilities and a range of Spinal Cord Injuries. Six Semi structured interviews, based on an interview guide were completed. The key findings were that there were no significant differences between the barriers identified by individuals with acquired and congenital disabilities, with the exception of the need for complex care provision for those with acquired disabilities. The impact of an individual's support and care network was highlighted as an area for future research as it plays a significant role in determining an individual's participation. A secondary finding was that affordability and inadequate transport remain limiting factors to participation. Key words: Disability, acquired, barriers, congenital, development, participation