Hierarchical leisure constraints of individuals with mobility disabilities and XR technologies as negotiation strategies

Individuals with mobility disabilities face significant barriers to leisure participation. While the hierarchical leisure constraints model has been applied to various populations, qualitative studies examining constraints for individuals with mobility disabilities in South Korea are scarce, as is research on technological negotiation strategies. This study aims to identify hierarchical leisure constraints experienced by individuals with mobility disabilities in South Korea and explore Extended Reality (XR) technologies as potential negotiation strategies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve individuals with mobility disabilities with spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, stroke, muscular dystrophy, and skeletal dysplasia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis guided by the Hierarchical Leisure Constraints Model and Leisure Ability Model. Participants experienced intrapersonal constraints (Internalised Social Stigma, Negative Reinforcement of Physical Self-image, Anticipatory Frustration), interpersonal constraints (Perceived Burden on Partners, Withdrawal from Social Participation), and structural constraints (Physical Infrastructure Inaccessibility, Exclusionary Systems and Attitudes). XR technologies offered negotiation strategies by providing safe practice environments, creating burden-free social interactions, and offering alternative experiences to physically inaccessible activities. XR technologies can serve as effective negotiation strategies for leisure constraints faced by individuals with mobility disabilities. However, technological solutions should complement rather than replace efforts to create more accessible physical environments for inclusive leisure participation.