Self-Actualization of Elite Blind Athletes: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the self-actualization of male and female elite blind athletes in comparison with test-manual norms and sighted athletes, thereby extending the limited knowledge base concerning the psychosocial functioning of the blind population. Data were collected by the Personal Orientation Inventory (Shostrom, 1974), and statistically significant differences were identified. Self-actualization profiles of blind athletes, except for lower scores on Existentiality and Self-Acceptance, were statistically identical to profiles of sighted athletes. Both athlete groups scored below test-manual norms in several areas, including the two major scales. However, athletes tended to be average or strong in Self-Actualizing Value, Feeling Reactivity, Spontaneity, Self-Regard, and Acceptance of Aggression.