Article

The aim of this study was to describe and identify factors associated with
motivation in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method Children with CP were
recruited for this cross-sectional study. Children were assessed using the Leiter
Intelligence Test, the Gross Motor Function Measure, and the Vineland Adaptive
Behavior Scale. Parents completed the Dimensions of Mastery Questionnaire (DMQ)
and questionnaires on demographics, child behaviour, and family functioning.
Results The parents of 74 children (46 males, 28 females; mean age 9y 2mo, SD 2y
1mo, range 5y 10mo-12y 11mo) completed the DMQ. Just over half of the children
(39/74) were classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS)
level I, with 13 classified at GMFCS level II, one at level III, six at level IV,
and 14 at level V; one child was not classified. The most common diagnoses were
spastic hemiplegia and quadriplegia (23 each), followed by diplegia (14). The
highest motivation scores were obtained for the dimensions of mastery pleasure
and social persistence and the lowest for persistence with motor or cognitive
tasks. Age and sex were not predictive of scores on the DMQ. Higher IQ (r=0.41),
better motor ability (r=0.43), and fewer limitations in self-care, communication,
and socialization (r=0.44-0.53) were positively associated with motivation total
score. A negative impact of the child's disability on the family was associated
with lower motivation (r=-0.44). Positive social behaviours were positively
correlated with motivation (r=0.38-0.66), whereas hyperactivity and peer problems
were negatively associated. Interpretation High motivation was associated with
fewer activity limitations and behavioural problems and reduced family burden.
Low motivation may adversely influence a child's functional potential and the
effectiveness of interventions. Strategies focusing on the child, peers, adults,
or activities are proposed to enhance the children's motivation to engage in more
challenging activities.
CI - (c) The Authors. Journal compilation (c) Mac Keith Press 2010.

Langue : ANGLAIS