Understanding Special Olympics Experiences from the Athlete Perspectives Using Photo‐Elicitation: A Qualitative Study. Issue 5 (14th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Weiss, Jonathan A.; Burnham Riosa, Priscilla; Robinson, Suzanne; Ryan, Stephanie; Tint, Ami; Viecili, Michelle; MacMullin, Jennifer A.; Shine, Rebecca
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities. Volume 30:Issue 5(2017:Sep.)
• Page Start: 936
• Page End: 945
• Publication Date: 2016-09-14
• Subjects: athlete perspectives -- photo‐elicitation -- photovoice -- Special Olympics; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; Learning disabled -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.85880072
• DOI: 10.1111/jar.12287
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-2322

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Many individuals with intellectual disabilities experience challenges to participating in organized sport, despite its known benefits. The aim of this qualitative study was to understand the experiences of participating in sport (Special Olympics) from the perspectives of athletes with intellectual disabilities. Methods: Five participants (13‐33 years of age) took part in a photo‐elicitation project during a 1‐month period. Results: Our thematic analysis of participant photographs and descriptions revealed the following athlete themes: 'Connectedness' and 'Training in Sport'. Conclusion: Photo‐elicitation was a useful and important tool in assisting athlete participants to communicate their motivations to participate in sport in ways that using traditional verbal interviewing would not.