Title: A Sociocultural Analysis of Adaptive Skateboarding
Thesis Supervisor: Dr. Andrea Bundon (KIN)
Committee Members: Drs. Brian Wilson (KIN), Moss Norman (KIN), Deirdre Kelly (EDST)
Chair: Dr. Robin Lindsey (Sauder School of Business)
External Examiner: Dr. Bryan Clift (Department for Health, University of Bath)
University Examiners: Drs. Patricia Vertinsky (KIN), Ben Mortenson (OSOT)
Abstract: This dissertation research project explored physically disabled skateboarders’ and wheelchair motocross (WCMX) riders’ experiences within the skateboarding (sub)culture. Using (digital) qualitative methods, this project examined 30 physically disabled riders’ experiences within three different “skate spaces” 1) the skateboarding (sub)culture, 2) the digital space of Instagram, and 3) material skate spaces. Guided by a Critical Disability Studies perspective, findings from the study highlighted how participation in adaptive skateboarding and WCMX may offer physically disabled individuals a range of health benefits including enhanced physical and mental health and social benefits including improved self-confidence and independence, expanded social networks, and greater sense of community and belonging. Despite these benefits, however, findings also illuminated how larger social, cultural, economic, and structural forces may influence and inhibit disabled riders’ engagements with and participation in different (sub)cultural, digital, and material spaces. This study contributes to literature on action sports, disability sport, and the sociology of sport and highlight both the benefits and challenges of participation in informal, (adaptive) action sports for physically disabled people.