Physical Activity Participation of Disabled Children: A Systematic Review of Conceptual and Methodological Approaches in Health Research

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) participation is widely recognized as a critical component of health and development for disabled and non-disabled children. Emergent literature reflects a paradigm shift in the conceptualization of childhood PA as a multi-dimensional construct, encompassing aspects of physical performance, and self-perceived engagement. However, ambiguity remains around how participation as a health construct is integrated into PA research. The primary objective of the present mini-review is to critically examine current conceptual and methodological approaches to evaluating PA participation among disabled children. We conducted a systematic review of contemporary literature (published between 2000 and 2016). Seventeen articles met inclusion criteria, and their research approach was classified into guiding framework, definition of the key construct, and measurement used. The primary guiding framework was the international classification of functioning, disability and health. An explicit definition of PA participation was absent from all studies. Eight studies (47%) operationalized PA and participation as independent constructs. Measurements included traditional performance-based aspects of PA (frequency, duration, and intensity), and alternative participation measures (subjective perception of involvement, inclusion, or enjoyment). Approximately 64% of included articles were published in the past 2 years (2014–2016) indicating a rising interest in the topic of PA participation. Drawing from the broader discussion of participation in the literature, we offer a working definition of PA participation as it pertains to active, health-associated behaviors. Further description of alternative approaches to framing and measuring PA participation are offered to support effective assessment of health status among disabled children.

Special Swimming Activity, a Recommend Program for Persons with Disabilities (PWD)

“…It was supported by the study of Laural [18] that all children can be directed to engage in some physical activity capability, Torralba [19] said, in teaching physical education to students with special needs demands special skills and knowledge that will enable educators to meet and address. Ross, et al, [5] added that parents of SWD should encourage participation in physical activity of their children. Let them explore movement and play, be optimistic and guide them toward participation that is very important in to enhance their level of physical capabilities.…”

“…Ross, et al, [5] and Cumming, et al, [6] added that parents of the students with disabilities should encourage participation in physical activity of their children. Let them explore movement and play, be optimistic and guide them toward participation that enhanced their level of physical fitness.…”

Description of Functioning in Children and Adolescents with Mucopolysaccharidosis - Case series

“…On the relevance of ICF in the clinical evaluation scenario, although it is also a classification system, in our perspective it was used as a guiding model for the biopsychosocial evaluation of Functioning [33]. By presenting an integrative approach, it has become a global framework for rehabilitation practices and medical evoluation [34,35]. It can be used for decision making at the macro, meso and micro levels of the health sector.…”

An Examination of Parent-Reported Facilitators and Barriers to Organized Physical Activity Engagement for Youth With Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Physical, and Medical Conditions

“…Several theoretical frameworks have been used to understand PA participation of children with disabilities ( Ross et al, 2016 ). They include the theory of Planned Behavior ( Ajzen, 1991 ), self-determination theory ( Deci and Ryan, 2000 ), and socio-ecological frameworks (e.g., Bronfenbrenner, 1979 ; see Rhodes et al, 2019 for a review of these theoretical frameworks).…”