Keywords

adaptability, cohesion, core and balance family leisure, developmental disability, family functioning, family leisure

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between family leisure involvement and family functioning among families that include children with developmental disabilities. The sample consisted of 144 families (144 parents and 60 youth). Data were analyzed from the parent, youth, and family perspective. The Family Leisure Activity Profile (FLAP) was used to measure family leisure involvement. FACES II was used to measure family functioning. A scale based upon the definition, classification, and systems of support manual of the American Association on Mental Retardation adapted by Dyches was used to measure the level of support needed by the child with a developmental disability. Blocked multiple regression analyses indicated a positive relationship between core family leisure and family cohesion, adaptability, and overall family functioning, but the analyses indicated no relationship between balance family leisure and family cohesion, adaptability, and overall family functioning from all three perspectives. Results also indicated that family functioning and family leisure involvement were very similar between traditional families and families including children with developmental disabilities. Implications for practitioners and recommendations for further research are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Dodd, D., Zabriskie, R., Widmer, M., & Eggett, D. (2009). Contributions of Family leisure to family functioning among families that include children with developmental disabilities. Journal of Leisure Research, 41(2), 261-286.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2009

Publisher

Journal of Leisure Research

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Experience Design and Management

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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