Grant: Operating Grant

The purpose of the research program is to understand, from multiple perspectives, the intersection of transition and dignity as persons with physical disabilities pursue community based physical wellness. The objectives of the proposed studies are to increase our understanding of (a) the personal experiences of persons with disabilities undergoing transition to community fitness programs (Study 1 - individual psychological readiness), (b) the readiness of fitness centre staff to accommodate people with disabilities in their settings (Study 2 - community psychological climate), and (c) the significance of disability peer mentors in sustained community fitness participation (Study 3 - participation sustainability). The Schlossberg et al. (2001) model of transition will provide the conceptual framework for the studies as it describes four factors that influence one's ability to cope during transition: (a) situational variables (timing, role change, duration, previous experiences); (b) the self (individual readiness, psychological resources); (c) support (types, function of supports); and (d) strategies (action taken or not taken). The heuristic framework will support the interpretation of the findings and structure knowledge transfer recommendations. As transition is manifest in day-to-day experiences of change over time and perceptions of dignity as the person interacts with the environment, qualitative research approaches will be utilized.