SOCIOLOGY OF ACCEPTANCE REVISITED - MALES WITH PHYSICAL-DISABILITIES PARTICIPATING IN SPORT AND PHYSICAL-FITNESS ACTIVITY

Research suggests that individuals with physical disabilities frequent ly experience devaluation and uncertain social interactions. Some soci ologists have recently advocated a sociology of acceptance, wherein in dividuals with disabilities are not automatically stigmatized but may receive acceptance and civility. The purpose of this article is to exa mine the perceptions individuals with physical disabilities have regar ding the reactions of able-bodied persons toward their participation i n a sport and physical fitness setting, as well as to explore how thes e individuals respond to the attitudes and behavior demonstrated by ab le-bodied persons. In-depth, tape-recorded interviews were conducted w ith 19 males, between the ages of 20 and 41, with physical disabilitie s. Findings indicate that respondents perceive able-bodied persons dis count and overlook their physical ability to participate in sport and physical fitness activity. Such expressions of unequal respect and reg ard by the able-bodied demonstrate differential treatment or a lack of acceptance. Nonetheless, these individuals with physical disabilities do not internalize the negative assessments because of masculinizing sport outcomes and minority group membership. Reasons for revisiting a sociology of acceptance are discussed.