The psychosocial impact of wheelchair tennis on participants from developing countries

Abstract

Purpose: Individuals with physical disabilities in developing countries can experience many instances of psychosocial hardship. Although scholars have suggested that participation in sport can positively impact psychosocial health, few studies have explored this phenomenon within the disabled population of developing nations. Methods: Sixteen wheelchair tennis players were recruited across six developing countries and interviewed in regards to their experiences. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim and subject to thematic analysis. Results: Wheelchair tennis players perceived their participation in sport enhanced their psychosocial well-being. Three broad themes emerged from analysis of the interviews; (1) developed transferrable skills, (2) perceived personal growth and (3) benefits of an athletic identity. Conclusions: Sports participation, in this case wheelchair tennis, may be a viable means to promote psychosocial well-being in disabled populations within developing nations. Moreover, sport holds the potential to challenge negative perceptions of disability at an individual and societal level within these cultures.

Implication for Rehabilitation

• Individuals with physical disabilities in developing countries may experience psychosocial hardship and cultural stigma.

• Wheelchair sport may be a viable means to enhance psychosocial well-being in this population.

• Skills learnt “on court” are transferrable to everyday life potentially improving independence and quality of life.

• Identifying as an athlete can challenge negative cultural perceptions of disability.

Keywords:

• Culture
• disability
• social impact
• sport
• well-being

Declaration of interest

This study was partially supported by the Wheelchair Tennis Development Fund by way of a student bursary.

Notes

¹Exclusion from a society or group [48].

²Sense of power, control, autonomy or authority [49].

³Perception of command and control [42].

⁴An association of disgrace or public disapproval with something, such as an action or condition [50].

⁵Wheelchair tennis differs from regulation tennis in only two ways; the ball can bounce twice and players must play in wheelchairs. There are three categories; men's, women's and quads. Quads are players who have limitations in more than two limbs. If necessary, they are permitted to play with an electric wheelchair. The sport was granted Paralympic Status in 1992 and has been part of the Games ever since. There are now major tournaments worldwide throughout the year including the four Grand Slams at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open [31].