Citation

Duong A, Roberts L, Cramm H, Evans MB, Mayhew E, Latimer-Cheung AE, Aiken A, Shirazipour CH. Psychol. Sport Exer. 2023; 68: e102457.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102457

PMID

37665901

Abstract

Family are influential actors in adapted sport participation. However, little is known about their experiences with adapted sport. The current study sought to explore the experiences of families in adapted sport through the context of the Invictus Games, an international adapted sport competition for military personnel with physical and psychological illnesses and injuries that is unique in its inclusion of family programming. Family members (n = 21; partners, parents, siblings, and children) of Invictus Games Toronto 2017 competitors participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: recognition of family experiences during service and after onset of disability; creating a sense of belonging; and improving family knowledge and perceptions. This study provides insight regarding how adapted sport events can support the well-being of both individuals with illnesses and injuries and their families.

Language: en

Keywords

Sports; Families; Mental health; Rehabilitation; Disability; Military medicine