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ERIC Number: ED637029
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 119
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3799-1435-6
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Physical Activity Experiences of Young Adults Attending a College for Neurodiverse Learners
Elizabeth Keener
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, Texas Woman's University
Neurodiversity is a term used to describe a broad spectrum of learning differences (LD) including attention deficit hyper-activity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Asperger's syndrome, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and other social, psychological, or processing differences (Griffin & Pollack, 2009). Neurodiversity is not a diagnosis but is instead a concept inspired by the idea that the long-standing cultural norms that define disability limit our understanding of the vastness of human experience (Shapiro, 1994). Defined under neurodiversity, these conditions are not disorders, but are differences in experiencing and processing physical, social, and cultural environments (Griffin & Pollack, 2009). The larger neurotypical cultural environment limits access and promotes stigmatization of neurodiverse individuals (Griffin & Pollack, 2009), which creates challenges for people who identify as having a neurodiversity. These challenges contribute to low physical activity (PA) participation, and negative perceptions of health, wellness, and quality of life among neurodiverse individuals (Hamm & Yun, 2019; Smith et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2013). Transition to college can exacerbate barriers to PA for neurodiverse young adults. To date, very little research exists on the PA experiences of neurodiverse young adults attending institutions of higher education (IHE). A few IHEs designed for neurodiverse learners are unique institutions that utilize evidence-based strategies to promote academic and personal success which can have an influence on PA participation in this population. The purpose of this study is to explore PA experiences of neurodiverse young adults and factors that contribute to participation in PA. Ten college students from an IHE for neurodiverse learners (IHENL) were recruited through purposive sampling. Through in-person interviews and focus groups, PA experiences of neurodiverse young adults were explored. Bioecological systems theory [BST; Bronfenbrenner, 2000], and interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) were used as the theoretical framework to interpret the interview data. Three overarching themes were identified and described: 1) Development of PA; 2) PA, Sport, and the College Experience; and 3) Systems of Support and PA. Additionally, suggestions for improving PA offerings through fitness and recreation are also described. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A