The psychosocial impact of wheelchair tennis on participants from developing countries.

Introduction:

Individuals with physical disabilities in developing countries can experience many instances of psychosocial hardship. Although scholars have suggested that participation in sport can positively impact psychosocial health, few studies have explored this phenomenon within the disabled population of developing nations.

Study aim: To identify the psychosocial impact of participating in wheelchair tennis on individuals with disabilities from developing countries. 

Methods:

Sixteen wheelchair tennis players were recruited across six developing countries and interviewed regarding their experiences. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim and subject to thematic analysis.

Main findings:

• Wheelchair tennis players perceived their participation in sport enhanced their psychosocial well-being.
• Three broad themes emerged from analysis of the interviews; (1) developed transferrable skills, (2) perceived personal growth and (3) benefits of an athletic identity.
• Sports participation may be a viable means to promote psychosocial well-being in disabled populations within developing nations.
• Sport holds the potential to challenge negative perceptions of disability at an individual and societal level within these cultures.
• Skills learnt "on court" are transferrable to everyday life potentially improving independence and quality of life.
• Identifying as an athlete can challenge negative cultural perceptions of disability.

Reference (DOI):  Richardson EV, Papathomas A, Smith B, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. The psychosocial impact of wheelchair tennis on participants from developing countries. Disabil Rehabil. 2017 Jan;39(2):193-200. DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2015.1073372

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