FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR LOW LEVELS OF EXERCISE AND SPORTS PARTICIPATION AMONG PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

This study is aimed at finding out the factors responsible for low participation in sports among persons with special despite the benefits of participating in sports. A descriptive survey design was used, targeting 50 students with special needs in the university of Benin. Fifty questionnaires were administered to 50 students with special needs in the university of Benin and 20 questionnaires were given to the general population to test the reliability of the responses. The findings gained from the study shows that people with special needs face a lot of barriers responsible for low level of exercise and sports participation which include stigmatization, lack of information, lack of accessibility, reduced physical abilities, lack of awareness, fear of health complications and financial constraints. The study sees the need to address these barriers and encourage effective participation in sports among persons with special needs. This includes increasing accessibility, creating awareness about disabled sports and ensuring participation is mandatory by students, designing adapted sports program specific to the needs and type of disability of the individual.