Difference, Adapted Physical Activity and Human Development: Potential Contribution of Capabilities Approach

Abstract

This paper is a call to Adapted Physical Activity (APA) professionals to increase the reflexive nature of their practice. Drawing upon Foucault’s concept of governmentality (1977) APA action may work against its own publicized goals of empowerment and self-determination. To highlight these inconsistencies, we will draw upon historical and social factors that explain the implicit dangers of practice not following policy. We propose that APA practitioners work according to ethical guidelines, based upon a capabilities approach (Nussbaum, 2006, 2011; Sen, 2009) to counteract possible adverse effects of APA practitioner action. A capabilities approach is conducive to the development of each individual’s human potential, by holistically considering the consequences of physical activity (i.e., biological, cultural, social, and psychological dimensions). To conclude, this paper will offer suggestions that may lead to an ethical reflection aligned with the best interest of APA’s users.

From the Athletes’ Perspective: A Social-Relational Understanding of How Coaches Shape the Disability Sport Experience

“…They did not have the informational guidance or support of a regular coach, and access to other support services (e.g., physical therapy) were limited. Quinn felt that her coach behaved in such a way because he did not view disability sport as "real" sport, reflecting the stereotype that individuals with disabilities are weak or incompetent (and therefore incapable of performing athletic feats; Silva & Howe, 2012). Such a stereotype represents an attitudinal barrier to participation (e.g., Haslett et al, 2017).…”

Yes We Can! A Phenomenological Study of a Sports Camp for Young People With Cerebral Palsy

“…Disability is a form of social oppression and is related to participation restriction (see Kristiansen, Vehmas, & Shakespeare, 2009;Oliver, 1996;Ralston & Ho, 2010). Although a number of scholars agree that APA should move away from the medical model of disability, the medical approach is still reflected in much of the APA literature (Jespersen & McNamee, 2008;Silva & Howe, 2012).…”

“…Since the beginning of the 20th century, the aim and purpose of APA have been interpreted and defined in many-sometimes conflicting-ways (Hutzler & Sherrill, 2007). It is generally seen as a cross-disciplinary field of study and practice, where interventions have historically been governed by what in disability research is referred to as the medical model, and to a lesser extent a social model, of disability (Reid, 2003;Silva & Howe, 2012). In a rough generalization, the medical model implies a focus on the physical and anatomical body.…”

Sport Policy in Canada

“…Segregation is solidified by the heading 'Not Different, But in Addition' which is absurd for the simple fact that all of human kind is different in one way or another and it is something we need to be upfront about and celebrate (cf. Silva & Howe, 2012). The fact that athletes with disabilities still need to be separated from 'able' athletes on the Canadian Sport for Life virtual platform demonstrates that acceptance of difference is far from being achieved (cf.…”