Article ID: 230512011
This study assessed the efficacy of a brief parent-child exercise program in enhancing social support and exercise self-efficacy for mothers of children with physical impairments. Three mothers and their junior high or high school-aged children participated in a 30-minute exercise program over two consecutive days. This program incorporated preparatory activities and paired exercises, including stretching and relaxation. The study assessed the mothers’ levels of sports social support and exercise self-efficacy before and after the program, highlighting notable score changes. Moreover, the participants’ interview records were analyzed to provide additional insights. Results indicated that two of the mothers perceived increased social support from both other families and their own children. Nevertheless, their perspectives on the impact of this support varied. Instrumental support was enhanced when mothers learned how to adapt exercises to accommodate their children’s impairments. The experience of exercising with their children fostered a deeper bond and heightened emotional support for the mothers. Furthermore, the findings on exercise self-efficacy were mixed: two mothers reported varied effects, whereas one mother reported exclusively positive outcomes. Following the program, two mothers pursued the exercise routine, albeit intermittently. In conclusion, while a short-term parent-child exercise program can potentially bolster social support for mothers of children with physical impairments, its efficacy in consistently promoting self-efficacy and sustained exercise remains uncertain.
