title: Fidelity in sensory integration intervention research.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We sought to assess validity of sensory integration outcomes research in relation to fidelity (faithfulness of intervention to underlying therapeutic principles).
  
  
  METHODS
  We identified core sensory integration intervention elements through expert review and nominal group process. Elements were classified into structural (e.g., equipment used, therapist training) and therapeutic process categories. We analyzed 34 sensory integration intervention studies for consistency of intervention descriptions with these elements.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Most studies described structural elements related to therapeutic equipment and interveners' profession. Of the 10 process elements, only 1 (presentation of sensory opportunities) was addressed in all studies. Most studies described fewer than half of the process elements. Intervention descriptions in 35% of the studies were inconsistent with one process element, therapist-child collaboration.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Validity of sensory integration outcomes studies is threatened by weak fidelity in regard to therapeutic process. Inferences regarding sensory integration effectiveness cannot be drawn with confidence until fidelity is adequately addressed in outcomes research.
authors: Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar Street-CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA. Lparham@usc.edu
authors: L Diane
authors: LD
authors: Parham
authors: Ellen S
authors: ES
authors: Cohn
authors: Susan
authors: S
authors: Spitzer
authors: Jane A
authors: JA
authors: Koomar
authors: Lucy Jane
authors: LJ
authors: Miller
authors: Janice P
authors: JP
authors: Burke
authors: Barbara
authors: B
authors: Brett-Green
authors: Zoe
authors: Z
authors: Mailloux
authors: Teresa A
authors: TA
authors: May-Benson
authors: Susanne Smith
authors: SS
authors: Roley
authors: Roseann C
authors: RC
authors: Schaaf
authors: Sarah A
authors: SA
authors: Schoen
authors: Clare A
authors: CA
authors: Summers
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D020886:Somatosensory Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D014481:United States