Inclusion in Sport: An Exploration of the Participation of People Living with Disabilities in Sport

Abstract

Background: Participation in sport is a fundamental human right [1]. Participation in sports by people living with disabilities (PWDs) presents several mental, physical social and emotional benefits. However, it has been observed that the participation of PWDs in sport and physical activity is generally less as compared to their able bodied counterparts [2] . Aim: The aim of the study was to explore the participation of PWDs in Paralympic games. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to identify the level of participation of PWD in sports, barriers that impede the participation and strategies that can be used to enhance their participation. Setting: The study explored the participation of people living with disabilities (PWD) in sport (Paralympic Games) in Gokwe south district in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. It focused on exploring barriers that impede the effective participation of People living with disabilities (PWDs). Materials and Methods: The study adopted a mixed methods research approach utilizing the embedded (nested) mixed method design within the traditional descriptive survey design. Structured interviews and observations were used as to collect data. The research participants comprised PWDs aged 15 years and above. The random sampling method was used to select a sample of sixty PWDs. Statistical analysis: Data was integrated into frequency tables and graphs and was textually interpreted to derive meaning from it. Results: The study revealed that access to sport by people with a disability was a major challenge. Lack of awareness, Severity of disability, inadequate funding, poor transport, lack of support from significant others, lack of appreciation of the value of sport, poor and inadequate assistive devices, poor training equipment and the role of the sports trainer were found to be the major factors limiting access to sport participation by PWDs. Recommendations: It was recommended that both governmental and nongovernmental organizations should provide adequate resources for the Paralympics games. It was also recommended that both government agencies and disability rights advocates should increase awareness on the importance of participation in sport by people with disabilities.