Leisure programmes that promote leadership amongst youth with, and without disabilities: A scoping review

Abstract

Communities worldwide experience inequalities which are exacerbated by racism, discrimination, poverty, and a lack of inclusion for people with disabilities. This study embraces the notion of offering leisure programme services that provide opportunities for youth with, and without disabilities, to develop leadership skills. A scoping review of available literature was conducted to map the extent and range of research activity around leisure programmes that develop leadership amongst the youth with, and without disabilities. The scoping review entailed a rigorous screening of studies based upon specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Interventions in the studies focused on promoting leadership skills and other soft skills that complement one another. Examples of the interventions included activities of daily living such as education/work, play, leisure and social participation, residential and day camps, youth-led conferences, and leisure, recreation, sports and physical activities. For youth with disabilities, studies focused on development of the soft skills needed in activities of daily living such as social skills and empowerment, which enable the youth to cope effectively with life’s challenges. Leisure programmes that promote leadership skills in the youth with, and without disabilities are direly needed for capacity development and improvement of overall quality of life.