Examining Scuba Diving as Recreational Therapy: A Case Study

This case study explores the therapeutic potential of recreational scuba diving for individuals with disabilities, specifically looking at the lived experiences of a 78-year-old male with a spinal cord injury resulting in paraplegia. Through qualitative methods, including narrative and thematic analysis, this study examines the participant’s engagement with adaptive scuba as well as other adapted sports offered by the Patricia Neal Innovative Recreation Cooperative (IRC). Key themes that emerged from the data include physical and emotional freedom, social connection, identity reconstruction, and emotional growth. The participant described scuba diving as a uniquely liberating experience that facilitated a sense of weightlessness, increased mobility, and a reconnection to pre-injury interests. Furthermore, the social aspect of diving- particularly intergenerational interactions with student divers- enhanced his sense of community and belonging. These findings support the integration of scuba diving into recreational therapy programs, highlighting its potential to address physical, psychological, and social goals. The study offers valuable implications for recreational therapists seeking to broaden their interventions with evidence-based, engaging modalities that promote resilience, empowerment, and quality of life.