Managing Imperfection in a Perfectionistic Culture: Physical Activity and Disability Management Among Women with Disabilities

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Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe: (a) the relationship between a woman's ability to manage (i.e., cope or come to terms wilh) her disability via regular physical activity and her perceptions of physical and psychological empowerment, and (b) the ways women manage their disabilities, in particular, how they used physical activity in the management process. In-depth interviews were conducted with 37 women who had chronic illness and physical mobility disabilities. Findings suggested a relationship between disability management via physical activity and empowerment (psychological or physical) among the women or this sample. They also indicated three different management approaches: (a) management by minimizing the significance of the body, (b) management by normalization of the body, and (c) management by optimizing mind-body functioning. The implications of these findings for sport and society are discussed.