Research Article
Issue Date: January 31, 2018
Published Online: January 31, 2018
Updated: June 13, 2018
Success in Adults With Probable Developmental Coordination Disorder Using Structural Equation Modeling
Miri Tal-Saban; Asher Ornoy; Shula Parush
Author Affiliations
  • Miri Tal-Saban, PhD, is Lecturer and Researcher, School of Occupational Therapy, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel; miri.tal-saban@mail.huji.ac.il
  • Asher Ornoy, MD, is Professor of Anatomy, Embryology and Teratology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
  • Shula Parush, PhD, is School Chair and Director of Graduate Studies, School of Occupational Therapy, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
Article Information
Assistive Technology / Neurologic Conditions / Pediatric Evaluation and Intervention / Research Articles
Research Article   |   January 31, 2018
Success in Adults With Probable Developmental Coordination Disorder Using Structural Equation Modeling
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January 2018, Vol. 72, 7202205010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.022012
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January 2018, Vol. 72, 7202205010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.022012
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The aim of this study was to conduct a broad in-depth examination of the relationship between developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and use of executive strategies, daily life activities, emotional state, and internal factors attributed to success.

METHOD. We used a large randomized cohort of young adults. Structural equation modeling was performed to test both the direct effects and the mediated effects of the independent variable (probable DCD) on dependent variables (executive functions, academic and nonacademic activities, emotional state, and attribution to success).

RESULTS. Probable DCD had a direct and significant effect on all variables. Motor coordination impairments directly affected daily function in nonacademic and academic abilities and resulted in decreased use of executive strategies. Likewise, all the indirect effects hypothesized in the model were found to be significant.

CONCLUSION. The model revealed the direct and indirect influences of probable DCD on a range of functions, with far-reaching clinical implications.