[Measuring Participation - Discussion of the Theoretical Foundations of Current Assessment Instruments]

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Science
• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Social participation is a primary goal in pediatric rehabilitation.
• Current measurement tools for participation lack a clear theoretical foundation.
• Distinguishing participation from activity, according to the ICF/ICF-CY, is not sufficiently addressed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore scientific discussions on the concept and understanding of participation in rehabilitation.
• To derive practical and scientific implications for the field of participation research.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted in major databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ERIC, EMBASE) in August 2014.
• The search focused on instruments designed to measure participation.

Main Results:

• Existing participation instruments are based on diverse definitions.
• The scientific discourse surrounding the term 'participation' remains ongoing.
• There is a significant need for improved operationalization of activity and participation in line with the ICF/ICF-CY framework.

Conclusions:

• Users must verify the transferability of existing instruments to their specific context.
• A clear understanding of theoretical assumptions, ICF/ICF-CY alignment, and instrument objectives is crucial before utilizing or developing participation measures.