Journal of Research in Rehabilitation Sciences

The Impact of Focus Instructions on Balance Performance in Normal Children and those with Developmental Coordination Disorder

Document Type : Original Articles

Authors

1 PhD Student, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, School of Humanities, East Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

10.22122/jrrs.v13i2.2871

Abstract

Introduction: Motor learning studies on adults have shown that directing the learners’ attention to external cues is more effectual than internal cues. In this study, we investigated if this could be applied to children with and without developmental coordination disorder.Materials and Methods: 20 men, 20 normal boy students, and 20 boy students with developmental coordination disorder were selected using motor observation questionnaire for teachers. The task was stork balance test that was measured in two experimental conditions including internal (focus on minimizing movement of the foot) and external (focus on minimizing movement of the disk) focus of attention. For data analysis, ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc, and paired t tests were used at the significant level of P < 0.05.Results: According to constrained action hypothesis, adults performed better in condition of external focus of attention, whereas for normal children, using internal focus of attention was more useful. In children with developmental coordination disorder, no significant difference was found between the two conditions.Conclusion: According to the results of this study, therapists and coaches should adjust their rehabilitation methods and instructions based on age, experience, and developmental conditions of clients.

Keywords

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Journal of Research in Rehabilitation Sciences
Volume 13, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
June 2017
Pages 74-79