Fifteenth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

Individuals who endure a sudden onset of disability often face biopsychosocial suffering as they see their body as ‘less able’ or ‘defunct’, a negative mindset that can cause grave psychological and social concern. The objectives of the study are to determine if, how and why participation in sport has the ability to help individuals in their rehabilitation process. This research highlights the purpose and meaning of sport as a tool to combat wider psychological and social concerns that can be exacerbated by disability, thus adding to theoretical understandings on the psychology and sociology of sport. More precisely, the findings contribute to the academic fields on identity adaptation and self-determination, adding to these domains by highlighting their relation to sport. These findings were achieved by deploying qualitative research methods. Specifically, semi-structured interviews, which underwent thematic investigation using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The results show that sport helps individuals understand and accept their ‘new’ body, promoting positive psychological and social outcomes. It did not however identify if certain sports are more successful than others in achieving this. The research concludes that sport participation generates an acceptance of disability; creating a positive mindset and greater outlook on life by helping individuals realise what they can still achieve by adapting their identity to incorporate their disability, as well as aiding a determination to regain some form of normality. Further work could determine if team or individual pursuits are more effective in this process.