Background/Purpose Minority children experience fatal and non-fatal drowning at three times the rate of white peers. Swimming ability has been cited as a preventative mediator to drowning. The purpose for this study was to examine swimming ability and associated variables among US minority children. This research was Phase II of a previous study conducted in 2008, both commissioned by USA Swimming.
Method The Phase II study used a mixed method approach (Phase I-survey only). Six large cities in various regions of the US were chosen for data collection (Atlanta; Boston; Denver; Memphis; San Diego; & St. Paul/Minneapolis). Research team members worked with YMCAs in selected cities to solicit low income, minority subjects (youth & parents) who completed surveys (n=1,909) and participated in focus groups (n=72).
Analysis/Results African American respondents reported a 68.9% “low or no” swimming ability level (cannot swim - uncomfortable in deep end of pool). Hispanic/Latino youth confirmed a 57.9% “low/no” level while 41.8% of White participants rated themselves in “low/no” category. Free/reduced lunch program participants cited 66% “low/no.” Regression analysis confirmed “fear of drowning,” parental encouragement, appearance issues (hair, skin) were significant predictor variables. Financial and access concerns were variables included within the model, but were not significant. Focus group feedback verified regression results and uncovered valuable solutions.
Conclusions Minority children are at significant disadvantage concerning swimming ability. Major barriers to swimming instruction include parental fear and lack of encouragement. These obstacles can be overcome through implementation of focus group solutions, which will be highlighted.
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