Family Class More Than Fun!

[MeLisa Turcott Strongheart]

EXPLORING FAMILY TAEKWONDO AND ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER

Abstract (summary): Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is the most common condition in children worldwide. Families are often challenged by the condition and some are utilizing family Taekwondo as a tool to manage unwanted symptoms.

The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore the impact of family Taekwondo on the functioning of the family and child with ADHD, who were participating in Taekwondo programs in southern Ontario.

The children and parents from two families participated in semi-structured interviews. Responses from a demographic questionnaire provided information regarding the child's ADHD and family composition.

Through analysis of the data, five distinct themes emerged: school performance, family bonding, Taekwondo culture, challenge, and ADHD management.

The results from this study strongly indicate that both parents and their children with ADHD, participating in Taekwondo perceived a significant positive impact of this martial art on the children with ADHD to achieve their goals and on family relationships.

Description: This thesis/dissertation was completed and submitted at Nipissing University, and is made freely accessible through the University of Toronto’s TSpace repository.

View/Download the Thesis Here:
http://bit.ly/AdhdTaekwondoStudy

(Nipissing University, Faculty of Education)