Investigating the Occupational Participation of University Students with Developmental Coordination Disorder

Background: DCD persists into adulthood and is now being diagnosed in young adults. The associated difficulties with motor coordination significantly and persistently interfere with daily living activities and academic... [ view full abstract ]

Background: DCD persists into adulthood and is now being diagnosed in young adults. The associated difficulties with motor coordination significantly and persistently interfere with daily living activities and academic achievement (APA, 2013). This study aimed to provide an insight into the occupational participation of university students with developmental coordination disorder (DCD).

Methods: This exploratory, qualitative, descriptive phenomenological study used individual interviews with participants. These were guided by a protocol adapted from the Occupational Circumstances Assessment Interview and Rating Scales interview (Forsyth, et al., 2005).

Results: Participants had difficulties with occupational participation in various domains. In some cases, participation was evident but occupational performance was impaired. Difficulties with motor coordination, memory and attention impacted on participation. Environments generally supported participation, however, the importance of a formal DCD diagnosis in the university environment is evident. Compensatory strategies were used, however, in some cases participation restrictions prevailed.

Conclusions: University students with DCD may experience participation restrictions despite supportive environments and compensatory strategies. A DCD diagnosis may be key to facilitating participation in the university, however, there is an absence of an appropriate motor assessment. Universities may benefit from specific occupational therapy (OT) services to support participation and assist in providing diagnoses of DCD.