Developmental coordination disorder, generalized self-efficacy toward physical activity, and participation in organized and free play activities.
OBJECTIVE
To test a theoretical model linking developmental coordination disorder (DCD) to reduced physical activity (PA) through the mediating influence of generalized self-efficacy regarding PA.


METHODS
This was a cross-sectional investigation of students in grades 4 through 8 from 5 elementary schools in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada (n=590). Motor proficiency was evaluated using the short-form Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency. Generalized self-efficacy was assessed using the Children's Self-Perceptions of Adequacy in and Predilection for Physical Activity scale, and PA levels were evaluated using a 61-item Participation Questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to test the influence of generalized self-efficacy on the relationship between DCD and PA.


RESULTS
In this sample, 7.5% (n=44) of the children met the requirements for probable DCD. The effect of DCD on PA was mediated by generalized self-efficacy. In this model, 28% of the variance in children's PA was predicted by generalized self-efficacy and DCD.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest that children with DCD are less likely to be physically active and that generalized self-efficacy can account for a considerable proportion of this relationship. The implications for appropriate interventions to increase PA among children with DCD are discussed.
Cairney
John
J
Health Systems Research and Consulting Unit, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. john_cairney@camh.net
Hay
John A
JA
Faught
Brent E
BE
Wade
Terrance J
TJ
Corna
Laurie
L
Flouris
Andreas
A
D000293:Adolescent; D001290:Attitude; D002648:Child; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009043:Motor Activity; D019957:Motor Skills Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D010988:Play and Playthings / Q000523:psychology; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012647:Self-Assessment