Sport as a resource for psychological well-being for people with motor disabilities: A systematic review

BACKGROUND: Participation in sport is widely recognized as a crucial factor in overall well-being, especially for individuals with motor disabilities. The role of sports in promoting social support, mental health, resilience and self-efficacy among individuals with disabilities warrants further investigation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systematic review is to examine the relationship between sports participation and psychological well-being outcomes in adults with motor disability. METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines we conducted a Systematic Review across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and PsycNET. Outcomes included psychological well-being and mental health, quality of life, self-efficacy, resilience, self-esteem, motivation, mood, disability acceptance, social support, perceived social competence, and body-sexual esteem. RESULTS: Of 10,806 initially identified records, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results indicate sports participation is associated with improved psychological well-being (40% higher in competitive athletes; p < 0.0001; d ≥ 1.3), increased self-efficacy (P = 0.001, mean 69.5 ± 12.5 vs 62.0 ± 11.5 in non-athletes), higher resilience (r = 0.28; p = 0.004), and better social support in athletes with motor disabilities (β = 0.25; p < 0.01). Sports facilitated disability acceptance and improved social support, motivation, and mood regulation. Athletes showed varying quality of life perceptions, suggesting sports participation may serve as a mechanism for psychological adaptation and empowerment. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review underscores the multifaceted benefits associated with sports participation among individuals with motor disabilities, highlighting its role in enhancing psychological well-being. The findings emphasize the necessity of comprehending these factors to inform the development of evidence-based policies and targeted interventions aimed at promoting social inclusion and optimizing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through sports. PROSPERO REGISTERED NUMBER: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42025638993.