PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR WORKING WITH ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES

This paper presents general considerations for working with athletes w ith disabilities and the usefulness and possible modification of speci fic mental skills for those athletes. Common concerns for athletes wit h specific disabilities are discussed. Specific disabilities are consi dered under the headings of amputees, blind and visually impaired, cer ebral palsy, deaf and hearing impaired, intellectual disabilities, and wheelchair. Arousal control, goal setting, attention/concentration, b ody awareness, imagery, self-confidence, and precompetition preparatio n are discussed in terms of disability-specific issues as well as sugg estions for application.