Can scuba diving transform the lives of people with physical impairments? A mixed methods study

PurposeThis study aimed to: (1) test and explain the type of experience scuba diving is among people with physical impairments based on the experience-type framework; (2) assess and describe their personality based on the Big Five domains; and (3) identify if personality, years diving, and diving level predict experience-type.MethodsAn explanatory sequential mixed methods design was employed. The quantitative phase used a cross-sectional survey (n = 103). The qualitative phase used follow-up interviews with 15 participants divided into 3 case study groups. Joint displays with meta-inferences integrated the data.ResultsQuantitative and qualitative findings concurred on scuba being a transformative experience. 82.52% of survey participants reported scuba as a transformative experience, with no significant differences on experience impact based on impairment category (p = 0.56), impairment onset (p = 0.66), gender (p = 0.08), race/ethnicity (p = 0.51), or age (p = 0.07). Big Five personality domains, years diving, or diving level did not predict experience impact (R2 = 0.14, F(12,90) = 1.304, p = 0.2305). Data strand results differed on salient personality domains. Seven qualitative themes emerged, five on experience-type and two on personality.ConclusionsWe recommend the exploration of scuba diving as a prospective rehabilitation intervention. Innovative rehabilitation interventions that provide positive experiences and long-term health benefits to people with physical impairments are needed.Participants reported that scuba diving had a positive transformative impact in their lives through positive emotions, peace/relaxation, personal growth, development of skills, social connections, physical and mental healing, and lasting behavioral changes.Reporting scuba diving as a transformative experience was not influenced by the scuba divers' personality domains, diving level, demographic characteristics, or the number of years they had been diving.Authors recommend the consideration and further exploration of scuba diving as a prospective physical and psychosocial rehabilitation intervention.