Brian McCann
Newpark Autism Centre, Ireland
Title: The lived experiences of autistic adults as novice martial artists: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Biography
Biography: Brian McCann
Abstract
This study questions what it is to be an autistic adult as a novice martial artist in the practice of Aikido. It responds to a gap in the literature on martial arts as an intervention in autism and investigates the impact of martial practice on the affective domain. Four participants met with two inclusion criteria: firstly, to be between eighteen and sixty-five and secondly, to hold a clinical diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (DSM-5). The research was conducted using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The sample engaged in an adapted Aikido course taught by officially registered black belt instructors within a formal dojo setting. Video and photo elicitation were used in the semi-structured interviews and the participants logged their experiences. Two phases of interviews followed the 12-class course. Phase Two followed between four and six months after Phase One to register any longitudinal changes. The researcher personally transcribed all interviews. IPA was selected because it combined the rigour of hermeneutics, idiography and phenomenology. Phase One revealed superordinate themes across the four transcripts revealing issues of fear, bullying, threat, protection, anxiety and safety. Phase Two revealed a significant longitudinal impact on the daily lives of the participants, ranging from a newly acquired life-world structure to an increase in peace of mind. The study contributes to the current wave of advocacy for the autistic nation and should encourage and support further research. On a pragmatic level, it may offer inspiration to martial art instructors teaching autistic adults in their classes.