Motor and coordination difficulties in children with emotional and behavioural difficulties |
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| Authors: | Elisabeth Hill Michelle L Pratt Zara Kanji |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK;2. Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, UK |
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| Abstract: | To date, very few studies have explored the incidence of motor impairment amongst children with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (social, emotional and mental health (SEMH); formerly SEBD in England). Following research that suggests an increase in motor difficulties in young children and adolescents with SEMH difficulties, this study compares profiles of motor ability using the Movement ABC-2 assessment in children attending a specialist SEMH primary school with a typically developing comparison group and children with a diagnosis of developmental coordination disorder. We report an increased prevalence of borderline or clinically significant motor impairment amongst children with SEMH difficulties compared to the comparison group, with 44% of the SEMH special school sample falling within these ranges. We suggest that bearing in mind the increased likelihood for motor impairment is important in SEMH education, as it has likely impact on classroom functioning and ability and motivation to take part in socially and academically relevant activities. |
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