Perceived constraints and facilitators of participation in physical activity by individuals with autism spectrum disorders

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to examine the nature and context of parent perspectives of physical activity for their children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Methods. In the study, one of the qualitative research methods, semi-structured interview technique was used as the research design phenomenology method. In addition to demographic information form, participants were asked about the factors that facilitate or constraints their children's participation in physical activity and the benefits of physical activity. Criterion sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods, was used in the study. The study group consisted of 11 parents whose ages ranged from 37 to 55 years (Mage = 44.09, SD = 6.59) and children participated to physical activity rehabilitation program which was carried out by a special education and rehabilitation center. Thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Results. Three themes being constraints in physical activity, facilitators in physical activity and benefits of physical activity were reported. In the study, most frequently reported constraints were intrapersonal and the most commonly reported facilitator was also intrapersonal. Parents' opinions suggest that interpersonal factors and structural factors are important for special education students with ASD to continue their participation in physical activity. Conclusion. As a result, it is seen that the parents of individuals with ASD encounter some constraints in directing their children to physical activity, however due to the benefits obtained despite these constraints, their children continue to participate in physical activity.