The self-image of physically active and athletic adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24310/riccafd.14.1.2025.21148Keywords:
sport, intellectual disability, self-imageAbstract
Self-image is derived from various individual and social factors, including engaging in physical activity and/or participating in sports. The population with intellectual disabilities (ID) is not exempt from this phenomenon. Objective: The purpose of this review was to identify self-image and synthesize the most important literature on the self-image of physically active adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in sports. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, using a combination of the terms “sports,” “intellectual disability,” and “self-image” in the following databases: Scopus, ScienceDirect, Sage Journals, and Google Scholar. Results: A total of 5 articles that met the inclusion criteria and addressed the research topic were included. The variables analyzed in the different studies covered factors such as self-esteem, well-being, and quality of life. Conclusions: Scientific evidence indicates that self-image is fundamental and is strengthened in individuals with intellectual disabilities through physical activity and sports.
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