Exploring a cognitive intervention for children with pervasive developmental disorder.
BACKGROUND
Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) affect approximately 3-4% of the childhood population. PDD pervades every aspect of a child's life, having significant adverse effects on occupational performance.


OBJECTIVE
This study investigates a new treatment approach to treating children with PDD, the Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO-OP). CO-OP emphasizes problem-solving strategies and guided discovery of child- and task-specific strategies.


METHODS
Three goals were established in collaboration with the parents and the child. Pre- and post-measures of parents'perceptions of child performance were identified using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Repeated measures were taken using clinical observations, video analysis, and the Performance Quality Rating Scale (PORS).


RESULTS
Improved COPM ratings of performance and satisfaction were observed, and these results were paralleled by improved PQRS scores.


CONCLUSIONS
Self-report and observer report together provide preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of the CO-OP approach with children who have PDD supporting the use of CO-OP and suggesting further investigation.
Phelan
Shanon
S
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Field of Occupational Science, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada. sphelan2@uwo.ca
Steinke
Laura
L
Mandich
Angela
A