Exploring the contributing factors that influence the volition of adolescents with cerebral palsy: A directed content analysis

Abstract

Background

Communication, behavioural disturbances and low motivation influence the functional potential and the effectiveness of interventions in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). While the model of human occupation (MOHO) is a conceptual model in occupational therapy, no research on the volition of adolescents with CP in daily activities has been undertaken.

Aim

To explore the elements contributing to the volition of adolescents with CP based on their own experience

Methods

A qualitative approach using directed content analysis with volition of MOHO as a framework was applied. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were carried out with five adolescents with CP and five parents of the same adolescents.

Results

In this study primary codes were categorized into eight categories: family and community-related values, individual values, individual perceptions of ability level, sense of control over conditions, enjoying performing activities, enjoying interpersonal relationships, physical context features and social context features.

Conclusions

Personal causation in interaction with environmental features is strongly influenced by adolescents’ motivation.

Significance

Occupational therapists could improve the motivation of adolescents with CP in interaction with the individual’s volition with focussing on self-efficacy for promoting personal causation. Adapting to the physical environment and changing the attitudes of others to these adolescents is necessary.

Keywords:

• Model of human occupation
• environment
• value
• interest
• personal causation
• motivation
• qualitative research
• occupational therapy

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to express their appreciation to the parents and adolescents with CP who made this study possible. Moreover, a special thanks to colleagues at the Iran University of Medical Sciences for their help with the research process.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

The views expressed in the submitted article are author own and not an official position of the institution or funder.