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Physical activity engagement in young people with Down Syndrome: investigating parental beliefs
- Authors:
- ALESI Marianna, PEPI Annamaria
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 30(1), 2017, pp.71-83.
- Publisher:
- Wiley
Background: Despite the wide documentation of the physical/psychological benefits derived from regular physical activity (PA), high levels of inactivity are reported among people with Down syndrome. This study aims to explore parental beliefs concerning involvement, facilitators/barriers and benefits of PA in young people. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 parents of young people with Down syndrome. Results: Three facilitation themes were identified: (i) the support derived from family; (ii) the availability of APA (Adapted Physical Activity) expert instructors and coaches; (iii) the challenging nature of sport activities. Three barrier themes were identified: (i) the lack of APA expert coaches and specialized gyms; (ii) the characteristics of Down syndrome; and (iii) the parental beliefs and worries. Conclusions: Family plays a key role, as facilitator and barrier, to the participation of their children with Down syndrome in PA. Crucial is the implementation of evidence-based exercise programmes involving people with Down syndrome and their families. (Publisher abstract)