Alhumaid MM, Adnan Y, Said MA, Alobaid MA, Khoo S. Empowerment and social inclusion through Para sports: a qualitative study on women with physical impairments in Saudi Arabia.
Front Psychol 2024;
15:1366694. [PMID:
38756490 PMCID:
PMC11098277 DOI:
10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1366694]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background
Participation in sports represents a potent means of empowerment and social inclusion. Nevertheless, women with physical impairments encounter specific challenges in accessing Para sports. The main aim of this study is to present the experiential participation and achievements in sports of women with physical impairments in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
Twenty women athletes with physical impairments who engaged in competitive Para sports in Saudi Arabia were interviewed. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was employed to extract themes elucidating the experiences of women athletes with physical impairments in Para sports.
Results
Four dimensions were identified: (i) Exploring participation in sports; (ii) The positive impact of participation in sports; (iii) obstacles in participation in sport; and (iv) hopes and aspirations to improve participation in Para sports.
Conclusion
In Saudi Arabia, participation in Para sports functions as a powerful tool for empowering and socially integrating women with physical impairments. However, these women encounter challenges in accessing sports. Achieving empowerment in Para sports necessitates the establishment of an inclusive ecosystem that celebrates diversity and equality. Collaborative efforts from governments, sports organizations, communities, and individuals are indispensable in creating an environment where women with impairments can flourish in sports.
Collapse