Reasons Why Mothers Encourage Individuals with Down Syndrome to Participate in Sport and Recreational Activities: A Qualitative Study
Spor ve Performans Araştırmaları Dergisi, cilt.17, sa.3, ss.459-483, 2026 (TRDizin)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 17 Sayı: 3
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.17155/omuspd.1862154
- Dergi Adı: Spor ve Performans Araştırmaları Dergisi
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.459-483
- İnönü Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
The aim of this study is to examine the reasons why mothers encourage individuals with Down syndrome to participate in sport and recreational activities based on their views. The research group consisted of 16 mothers of individuals with Down syndrome, including 7 male and 9 female individuals, who participated in sport and recreational activities in Malatya, Türkiye. A qualitative research method, specifically a case study design, was used in this research. Data collection tools included a ‘Semi-Structured Interview Form’ developed by the researchers and a demographic information form. The data obtained from the study were analysed using content analysis. The data were classified under six themes: recreation, leisure time, health, family and social life, areas of development, and daily living skills. Mothers of individuals with Down syndrome stated that they encouraged individuals with Down syndrome to participate in sport and recreational activities because they perceived that these activities could contribute to maintaining health, supporting regular and healthy eating habits, and promoting an active and energetic lifestyle. In conclusion, the findings indicate that mothers encouraged individuals with Down syndrome to participate in sport and recreational activities based on their perceptions of potential benefits related to health, family and social life, developmental areas, and daily living skills. These findings reflect mothers’ reasons and perceptions and should not be interpreted as evidence of the direct effects of sport and recreational activities.