Masters Theses

Date of Award

8-1997

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Kinesiology and Sport Studies

Major Professor

Patricia A. Beitel

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to obtain information regarding the possible inclusion of disabled athletes into mainstream intercollegiate competition. Participants included 16 baseball players, 8 softball players, 27 men's swim team members, 12 women's swim team members, 27 men's track team members, and 24 women's track team members with a range in age from 18 to 25. The Ease Measure test was used to measure the amount of contact and level of comfort able-bodied athletes had with disabled athletes (Fichten, Tagalakis, & Amsel, 1986). This test consisted of 7 No/Yes questions regarding self-reported disability and type of contact with a disabled individual. The Ease Measure also discerned information through Likert responses regarding the comfort level, 1 (very uncomfortable) to 9 (very comfortable), of able-bodied athletes with disabled persons with various disabilities. Reliability and validity were determined by Fichten et al. (1986). A second test was used to measure the thoughts, feelings, and perceptions of able-bodied athletes concerning situations that could affect the inclusion of disabled athletes into mainstream intercollegiate competition. Respondents rated items according to Likert responses 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Reliability and validity were evaluated by the investigator of this study. Demographic information was determined for background data concerning age, gender, and race. These tests were administered by the researcher and completed by both men and women NCAA Division I able-bodied student athletes during their team meetings. All sub-problems were analyzed using independent sample t-tests and cross-tabulations of gender to evaluate gender differences and determine the level of significance. Results of this study indicated that there were significant gender differences involving able-bodied student athletes' perceptions of public support and support from the NCAA and Paralympics. There were also significant gender differences of the perceptions of able-bodied student athletes concerning: (a) the potential changes that could occur if disabled athletes were allowed to compete with mainstream athletes, and (b) whether disabled athletes should have a separate program from able-bodied athletes. More men athletes than women athletes expressed concern that the level of competition, as well as rules, would change if disabled athletes were allowed to compete with mainstream athletes. Subsequently, more women athletes thought that disabled athletes should not be content to compete only in the Paralympics. Likewise, there was a significant gender difference concerning able-bodied athletes' feelings about having a disabled individual as their teammate. No significant gender differences were found regarding contact or comfort level of able-bodied athletes with disabled athletes.

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