Date of Award

1995

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Edith Cowan University

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science Honours

Faculty

Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering

First Supervisor

Dr Lynn Embrey

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the reasons for participation and the benefits that the able-bodied and disabled subjects obtain from participation in the integrated sport of wheelchair basketball. A qualitative interview technique was employed to explore the athletes decision to participate and their reactions to the sport. Data was inductively analysed into categories which focused on the research questions. Consistent with other studies the subjects cited several reasons for participation with fun and enjoyment the most common response and challenge and the socialisation ranking next The disabled were more competitive with winning being an important reason for them. The two groups accepted each other with the able-bodied acknowledging that they now regret previous negative attitudes toward the disabled. In competition, neither group felt the need to back down when going in for a ball with the disabled commenting that the able fear us more. In a community setting the sport was not well known and reactions varied between the groups. The able had positive reactions while the disabled felt many reactions were derogatory toward them. Sport was seen as a major area where attitudes of the community could be altered. Recommendations and research applications have been presented to help assist further investigation of the effects of integration and general sports participation on the disabled individual

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