Practical Ways to Develop Self-Determination Skills in Recreational Sports for Adolescents with Disabilities | PALAESTRA
Practical Ways to Develop Self-Determination Skills in Recreational Sports for Adolescents with Disabilities
Samantha K. Papp
Audra I. Classen
For students with disabilities, participation in recreational sports could provide opportunities for them to be physically active while practicing self-determination skills. Although research has linked self-determination to improved quality of life for individuals with disabilities, limited research exists exploring the intersection of recreational sports and self-determination. The purpose of this paper is to provide practical ways to improve self-determination through recreational sports for adolescent students with disabilities. This paper highlights how adults can support adolescents in developing self-determination skills through strategies such as (a) setting goals, (b) helping them develop an action plan, (c) self-monitoring their progress, (d) adjusting their goals, and (e) advocating for themselves. Examples are provided for each of these self-determination strategies, and additional self-determination resources are provided. Subscribe to PALAESTRA