PROBLEMS FACED BY SPORTS INSTRUCTORS WORKING IN AUTISM SPORTS CLUBS

Abstract

In recent studies, the positive contributions of physical activity, physical education and sports to the lives of individuals with special needs are frequently mentioned. The presence of trainers and physical education teachers who conduct these activities for individuals with special needs is as important as physical activity, physical education and sports. Considering the difficulty of the education process of individuals with special needs compared to the education process of other individuals, it is thought that educators face relatively more various problems in the education process. From this point of view, the aim of this research is to examine the problems faced by trainers working in autism sports clubs. Qualitative research method was used in the research. 17 trainers working in autism sports clubs participated in the research voluntarily. Data were collected by semi-structured interview technique. Content analysis method was used in the analysis of the data. The reliability of the study was calculated using the Miles and Huberman (1994) formula and it was found that a consensus of 77% was achieved. In line with the answers given by the participants, three main themes were reached under the headings of family, children and environment. Under the main theme of family, 'insecurity, inadequacy in education, ignorance about autism, intrusive attitude, not accepting autism, non-cooperation and lack of communication', under the main theme of children 'aggressive behavior and varying negative behaviors', under the main theme of environment 'insensitivity, autism-related 'ignorance and discrimination' codes have been reached. As a result, it can be said that the problems faced by the participants are based on three different sources: family, child and environment. Depending on these results, it can be said that making families more conscious and environmental regulations will be effective in minimizing the problems faced by educators.