Perceptions of Competence and Peer Acceptance in Young Children with Motor and Learning Difficulties

Abstract

Perceptions of competence and peer acceptance are an integral component of the therapy process. Early identification of populations at risk is important. The Pictorial Scale of Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance for Young Children (PCSA) and the All About Me (AAM) were used to measure competence and peer acceptance perceptions in Grade 1 and 2 children with a learning disability (LD)(n = 13) or a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)(n = 10). As a group, these children report accurate descriptions of their abilities. The LD group reported lower perceived cognitive competence than the PCSA normative sample. The DCD group reported lower perceptions of physical competence on the AAM gross motor and total scales. The LD group also reported lower peer acceptance. The theoretical and practical implications of the results for therapists are discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sheryl Klein

Michael Lepp, PT, is in private practice, Associate Instructor of the Upledger Institute, and Clinical Instructor, Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry, Cleveland, OH.

Marie McKenzie, MS, OTR, is in private practice. She was Coordinator of Occupational Therapy at Scottish Rite Hospital at the time of this study.

Heather Miller, MS, OTR/L, is currently employed by Madison County Educational Service Center, providing therapy services to the county's pre-schools. This research was completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements of an MS degree at Ohio State University.

Linda Viscardis, BA, is Team Leader and Community Development Worker, Peterborough Family Enrichment Centre. She is Co-Founder of P.R.O.S.P.E.C.T.S., a support and advocacy group for families who have children with special needs.

Debra Stewart, BSc, OT(C), is Occupational Therapist, Erinoak, Serving Young People with Physical Disabilities, Mississauga, ON, and Clinical Lecturer, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University.

Janette McDougall, MA, was Project Coordinator

Kip Husted, BEd, was a parent representative on the study team.