PhD Studentship: Neurodiversity in sport: from PE to elite sport

The idea of neurodiversity or being neurodivergent (ND), as opposed to neurotypical (NT), emerged in the 1960s in relation to autism, but now encompasses several conditions. The most common of which are Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and dyslexia. There is little evidence on how to support ND individuals in engagement with sports and physical activity across levels of performance. The overarching aim of the PhD is to work alongside our partner organisation, Neurodiverse Sport, to build a better evidence base understand the experiences of ND individuals in sport at all levels and develop best practice guidance for ND-inclusive sport.

In delivering this aim we will include input from neurodiverse stakeholders by forming a Research Advisory Board (RAB) consisting of ND individuals to co-create and guide the research. The RAB will include members of Neurodiverse Sport and other key stakeholders in sport. Once set up the RAB will be maintained throughout. With the guidance of the RAB the project will then aim to complete four main phases.

Study 1: Identify and synthesize literature around neurodiversity in sport. A scoping review of all existing research available that describes neurodiversity within sport – ranging from PE classes to elite athletes, will identify and map the breadth of available evidence, summarise how research has previously been conducted, and identify and analyse knowledge gaps.

Study 2: Understand the experiences of ND individuals in physical education and sports settings. We will use semi-structured interviews to understand the perspectives from a range of stakeholders involved with creating and taking part in sport.

Study 3: Establish the level of awareness of ND in PE and sports teaching/coaching and understand the type of adjustments being made to create a ND-inclusive environment. We will use a mixed methods approach, utilizing an online survey. Quantitative items will measure awareness of ND in general and specifically the three most common conditions (ASC, ADHD, and dyslexia). Respondents will be asked to describe any adjustments they have made to support inclusion using through free text answers allowing qualitative analysis.

Study 4: Develop best practice guidelines for ND-inclusive sport. We will hold workshops with key stakeholders, including ND individuals, PE teachers and coaches to develop a list of recommendations. We will then utilise a modified Delphi technique to determine the importance and feasibility of considering these recommendations when teaching/coaching.

Internship: During the PhD, the candidate will undertake a two-month placement with Neurodiverse Sport with a further four weeks set aside to translate findings to other sports stakeholders. The exact format will be determined at the start of the PhD to fit the needs of the student and partner.

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