The determinants of self-determined behaviors of young children with cerebral palsy.
The purpose of this study was to identify determinants of self-determined behaviors of young children with cerebral palsy. The participants were 429 children (56% boys, 18-60 months) and their parents. Structural equation modeling was used to test two models of self-determined behaviors, one for children with walking mobility (Gross Motor Function Classification System, GMFCS levels I-II) and the other for children with limited self-mobility (GMFCS levels III-V). Cognitive-behavioral problems and the extent family supports their child's self-determined behaviors explained 60% of the variance in self-determined behaviors of children with walking mobility. Cognitive-behavioral problems, playfulness, and the extent family supports their child's self-determined behaviors explained 68% of the variance in self-determined behaviors of children with limited self-mobility. The less the child's cognitive-behavioral problems affect daily activities (p<.05) and the more the extent family supports their child's self-determined behaviors (p<.05), the more effective the child's self-determined behaviors. Playfulness only had an effect on self-determined behaviors of children with limited self-mobility (p<.05). Service providers are encouraged to assess and support children's daily functioning in cognition, communication, and emotional/behavioral regulation, playfulness, and family strategies in providing opportunity for children to practice self-determined behaviors.
Drexel University, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA. Electronic address: hui.chang@me.com.
Hui-Ju
HJ
Chang
Lisa A
LA
Chiarello
Robert J
RJ
Palisano
Margo N
MN
Orlin
Anita
A
Bundy
Edward J
EJ
Gracely
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000523:psychology*; D002652:Child Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019988:Children with Disabilities; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009048:Motor Skills; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D010988:Play and Playthings / Q000523:psychology*
Cerebral palsy; Children; Playfulness; Self-determined behaviors