title: Assistive technology to promote occupation and reduce mouthing by three boys with fragile X syndrome.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To extend the use of assistive technology (AT) for promoting a new adaptive response and to reduce hand mouthing, by three boys with fragile X syndrome. To monitor the effects of the intervention program on the positive mood. To carry out a three month follow-up phases. To conduct a social validation assessment involving 30 parents of children who presented multiple disabilities as raters.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study was implemented according to an ABAB experimental design, where A represented baseline phases (technology available but inactive) and B represented intervention phases (the technology ensured 7 s of positive stimulation).
  
  
  RESULTS
  All participants improved and consolidated their performance. Parents involved in the social validation assessment rated positively the use of such technology.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  AT-based program was useful, affordable, and effective for enhancing constructive engagement, self-determination, and for improving quality of life by children with fragile X syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Neurosciences , University of Bari , Bari , Italy.
authors.forename: Fabrizio
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Stasolla
authors.affiliation: b Lega del Filo d'Oro Research Center , Molfetta , Italy.
authors.forename: Viviana
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Perilli
authors.affiliation: c Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication , University of Bari , Bari , Italy.
authors.forename: Rita
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Damiani
authors.affiliation: c Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication , University of Bari , Bari , Italy.
authors.forename: Vincenza
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Albano
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D005600:Fragile X Syndrome / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009068:Movement; D011788:Quality of Life; D012656:Self-Help Devices
keywords: Assistive technology; cognitive-behavioral interventions; developmental disabilities; fragile X syndrome; quality of life