The experience of youths with physical disabilities in sport and physical activity settings

The purposes of this study were two-fold: to learn and interpretatively describe the holistic place experiences of 5 youths with physical disabilities by collecting narratives through the use of individual interviews and a drawing activity, and; to learn the meaning and significance of physical activity, sport, recreation, leisure and/or exercise to each of the five youths within their overall life story. Participants were 4 females and 1 male between the ages of 15 to 18 years. Following a narrative analysis and analysis of narratives, four topical areas emerged: swimming, specialized activity programs, school physical education, and outdoor places. The findings imply the importance for youths with physical disabilities to build attachments to places affording physical activity through need satisfaction of security, social affiliation, and creative expression and exploration.