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Published on: January 29, 2014
Development of the Sensory Processing Measure-School: initial studies of reliability and validity
Heather Miller-Kuhaneck1, Diana A Henry, Tara J Glennon
1Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT, USA.
Summary
The Sensory Processing Measure-School tool shows promise in identifying sensory processing issues in children. Initial studies indicate it is reliable and valid for differentiating between children with and without these challenges.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Occupational Therapy
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Sensory processing issues can impact a child's learning and behavior in school settings.
- A reliable and valid assessment tool is needed to identify these challenges accurately.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the development of the Sensory Processing Measure-School (SPM-School).
- To report findings from initial pilot studies evaluating the SPM-School's psychometric properties.
Main Methods:
- The SPM-School was developed through literature reviews, focus groups, case studies, and two pilot studies.
- Internal consistency and discriminatory ability were assessed using statistical analyses.
Main Results:
- High internal consistency was observed (Cronbach's alphas ranging from .70 to .99).
- The tool correctly classified typically developing children (92.3%) and children with sensory issues (72%).
Conclusions:
- The SPM-School demonstrates initial reliability and validity.
- The tool effectively discriminates between children with and without sensory processing issues, warranting further research with larger samples.
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