Swinging for Success: A Qualitative Study on Baseball’s Role in Supporting a Player with ADHD

Eva Zöller, Carsten Klöpfer, Janine Bracht, Paul Martin Müller and Matthias Grünke ()
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Eva Zöller: Department of Health and Social Sciences, Hochschule Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, 50670 Cologne, Germany
Carsten Klöpfer: Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
Janine Bracht: Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
Paul Martin Müller: Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
Matthias Grünke: Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany

Disabilities, 2024, vol. 5, issue 1, 1-12

Abstract: In this qualitative study, we examined the experiences of Rafael, a professional baseball player diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition. Through an extensive interview with the participant, our research aimed to determine how baseball can effectively support individuals with this diagnosis in overcoming their obstacles. Qualitative analysis of the verbal data revealed four interconnected themes—Formative Years and Key Experiences, Dealing with ADHD, Learning through Baseball, and Navigating Life Today—highlighting how the sport has served as a vital developmental and supportive activity for this athlete. Baseball ameliorated Rafael’s personal growth and self-regulation, transforming his challenges into opportunities for resilience and self-mastery. The study emphasizes the importance of physical team activities, particularly baseball, as a beneficial strategy for individuals with neurodevelopmental challenges and recommends further research into the long-term effects and mechanisms through which sports can alleviate symptoms associated with ADHD and related diagnoses.

Keywords: ADHD; neurodevelopmental challenges; social inclusion; sports; baseball; qualitative research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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