Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Kelly Dornbier

Abstract

Title: Enriching Social Connections: A Handbook for Occupational Therapy Practitioners

Introduction: For many children and adolescents with a neurological or neurodevelopmental disorder, navigating social relationships can be challenging. The multifaceted nature of these challenges significantly impacts their ability to engage in meaningful social participation (Hilton & Kramer, 2020). Children and adolescents encountering inherent barriers, including deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication, may lack the foundational skills needed for successful participation in social events, thereby interfering with their overall success (Hilton & Kramer, 2020). Social participation, an area of occupation frequently addressed in occupational therapy, is instrumental in child and adolescent development. Effective social participation fosters a sense of belonging and connection and plays a vital role in enhancing their overall health and wellbeing. Occupational therapy is crucial for supporting children and adolescents in overcoming social challenges and achieving meaningful engagement in occupational pursuits. Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to address the social communication challenges experienced by children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Methodology: A comprehensive needs assessment was conducted to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities within the target population and context. An extensive literature review was conducted through evidence-based resources from online databases, published books, professional organizations, and governmental websites. Literature was located through online databases from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences (SMHS) Library including, CINHAL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. This review was a foundation for developing the product and provided valuable insights into the population, existing interventions, DocuSign Envelope ID: DF159D94-1402-41EC-AED6-B0A5E3860BC4 vii and contextual factors relevant to the project. The product development was guided by the person-environment-occupation (PEO) model (Law et al., 1996). The PEO model was used to analyze the specific abilities and competencies of children and adolescents with ASD and ADHD, as well as the social environment, and its profound influence on social engagement and participation.

Results: The product, Enriching Connections: A Handbook for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, was developed to equip practitioners with interventions tailored to support the social skills development of children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD and ADHD. It’s sections on goal setting, screenings, intervention activities, caregiver support, and recommended resources directly support OTs in implementing effective interventions for social skills development.

Conclusion: This product serves as a resource for pediatric occupational therapists to empower children with a neurological or neurodevelopmental disorder with effective social skills that influence life engagement. It is anticipated that by implementing this product along with its accompanying research, and other noteworthy resources, further development of social skills in children can be achieved.

Download

Share

COinS