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Published on: March 21, 2019
Diagnostic criteria for DCD: Past and future.
Bouwien Smits-Engelsman1, Marina Schoemaker2, Tijs Delabastita3
1Motor Control Laboratory, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences Group, Department of Kinesiology, KU Leuven, Tervuursevest 101, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium; Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.
Authors are improving adherence to DSM criteria for childhood Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) but still lack detail on daily life impacts and diagnostic exclusions. Further specification for DSM-5 is needed.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Neurology
Background:
- Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects children's daily functioning and academic performance.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on adherence to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) criteria.
- Previous reviews indicated variability in diagnostic practices for DCD.
Framework:
- This review examines the compliance of research studies with DSM criteria for DCD diagnosis.
- The study analyzed selection criteria used in experimental and intervention studies published between 2010 and 2014.
- A total of 176 papers were included in the analysis.
Implementation:
- Compliance with DSM criteria for DCD diagnosis has shown improvement over the 2010-2014 period.
- Studies generally provided detailed motor performance data using standardized tests and cut-off values.
- Significant gaps exist in reporting other crucial DSM criteria, such as impact on daily activities and exclusion of other conditions.
Implications:
- Improved adherence to DSM criteria enhances the reliability and comparability of DCD research.
- The findings highlight the need for clearer guidelines on reporting diagnostic information for DCD.
- Recommendations are discussed for specifying DSM-5 criteria for both clinical practice and research settings.
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