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Reliability of family report for the Gross Motor Function Classification System
Christopher Morris1, Barbara E Galuppi, Peter L Rosenbaum
1National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK. christopher.morris@perinat.ox.ac.uk
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|July 3, 2004
Summary
Family reports reliably assess the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). This questionnaire method offers an efficient alternative to professional assessments for large-scale studies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) significantly impacts gross motor function in children.
- The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) is a key tool for assessing CP severity.
- Reliable and efficient methods for GMFCS assessment are crucial for research and clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reliability of family-reported Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels in children with cerebral palsy (CP).
- To compare family GMFCS ratings with professional assessments.
- To determine the feasibility of using family reports for large-scale studies.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire for families of children with CP.
- GMFCS levels reported by families were compared with existing professional ratings.
- Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to measure agreement.
Main Results:
- High agreement was found between professional and family GMFCS ratings (ICC=0.94 for the whole sample).
- Agreement was even higher when families had discussed GMFCS with a professional (ICC=0.97).
- Excellent stability (ICC=0.96) was observed between professional ratings and subsequent family ratings across age bands.
Conclusions:
- Family reports using the questionnaire provide a reliable method for assessing GMFCS in children aged 6-12 years with CP.
- This approach offers a potentially more efficient alternative to direct professional assessment for large populations.
- Family-reported GMFCS can support observational studies, experimental research, and health administration when professional assessment is not feasible.
