Participation in sports by people with intellectual disabilities in England: a brief report

Authors:
ROBERTSON Janet, EMERSON Eric
Journal article citation:
Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 23(6), November 2010, pp.616-622.
Publisher:
Wiley

Sports participation has often been linked to a range of physical, social and mental health benefits. However, little is known about the extent to which people with intellectual disabilities take part in sports. This study investigated participation in sports and factors associated with participation by people with intellectual disabilities in England. Data on participation in sports and measures of personal characteristics, living situation, social participation, and socioeconomic status associated with participation were analysed based on a sample of 2,784 people with intellectual disabilities in England. Findings revealed that, overall, 41% of participants had taken part in sports in the past month, most of whom had enjoyed it. Of those who did not take part, 34% said they would like to. Participation in sport was associated with some personal characteristics but not with support needs. It was also associated with indicators of socioeconomic status. The authors concluded that interventions to increase participation in sports by people with intellectual disabilities may make a significant contribution to improving their general health and well-being.

Subject terms:
learning disabilities, leisure activities, mental health, participation, physical exercise, sport;
Content type:
research
Location(s):
England
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN online:
1468-3148
ISSN print:
1360-2322

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