Transitioning from Separate to Community Physical Activity Contexts for Youth with Impairments: The Parental Experience

Bobbi-Jo L Atchison
2017
Moving from separate to inclusive community physical activity for youth with impairments can be a difficult transition for all involved. While research on the barriers for youth undergoing these transitions exists, little attention has been focused on the role and experiences of parents. The purpose of this study is to (a) explore the experiences of parents as they anticipate and prepare for the transition from one setting to another, (b) understand the strategies families use to address
more » ... ion, and (c) gain insights into the supports that are important as they address the challenges of program changes. Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis and instrumental case study approach, two semi-structured interviews were conducted with each of the eight parents of youth with impairments between the ages of 12 and 19 who were undergoing the transition from separate fitness programs to inclusive community fitness contexts. Using line-by-line thematic analysis, four themes described the experiences of parents as they anticipated, prepared for, and supported their child to transition from one setting to another: (a) my child may be ready, but I am not, (b) fear of outside judgement, (c) playing by their rules, and (d) reframing our thinking. Using Schlossberg's model (1981) the dynamic and powerful interactions between parents' experiences and societal influences were markedly evident throughout the transition. This study provides a deeper understanding of the tensions parents faced as they negotiated new roles, relationships, routines, and assumptions as they moved through the transition process. iii
doi:10.7939/r34b2xh44 fatcat:ia7l6qsebbaezalf6fotxkfz3y