Parental perspectives regarding sports participation of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Laura M. Turek (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Ben Dyson
Abstract: Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can experience symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and lack of social awareness, which can negatively impact their physical, mental and emotional well-being and have long term effects. Physical activity provides an alternative intervention from medication and behavioral therapies for children with ADHD without negative or long-term side effects and participating in sports is one method of physical activity that can be utilized. Currently, there is not a clear consensus in the literature on what specific type of sports participation is most beneficial to children with ADHD and with so many children affected by ADHD, it is necessary to increase the information on treatments and ways to reduce and manage the symptoms. This study examined the perspectives of parents regarding the sports experiences of their children diagnosed with ADHD using a qualitative case study approach. Participants included 19 parents of children between the ages of 7 and 12 years old diagnosed with ADHD that participate in sports. Individual interviews were conducted using semi-structured questions to discuss their child’s symptoms, treatments, and experiences with sports participation. Data analysis revealed that the participants felt that swimming, soccer, and basketball were the most successful sports for children with ADHD. Increased confidence, enjoyment, better sleep, and improved social skills were the key factors in these sports being successful. Baseball or t-ball and soccer were identified by participants as the least successful sports for their children with ADHD. Five themes emerged from the data analysis: improvements, having an outlet, it’s the coaches, just too much, and meds change things. All 19 parents that were interviewed for this study felt that sports were beneficial for their child with ADHD.
Parental perspectives regarding sports participation of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
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Created on 8/1/2023
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2023
- Keywords
- ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Children, Parental Perspectives, Sports, Sports Participation
- Subjects
- Parents of attention-deficit-disordered children $x Attitudes
- Sports for children with mental disabilities