Enhancing Youth Participation Using the PREP Intervention: Parents' Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Science
• Occupational Therapy
• Child Development

Background:

• Quantitative studies show Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) improves youth participation.
• Parental perspectives are crucial for understanding intervention effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore parents' views on the PREP intervention for youth with physical disabilities.
• To complement existing quantitative data with qualitative insights.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews with 12 parents of youth (12-18 years) with physical disabilities.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify key themes related to the intervention.

Main Results:

• Parents described the "nature of intervention," highlighting its broad impact beyond specific activities.
• Three inter-linked themes emerged: "nature of intervention," "multi-faceted effects of care," and "process of care."
• Benefits included improvements in physical, emotional, social, and autonomy levels, with parents' needs also acknowledged.

Conclusions:

• The PREP approach yields diverse benefits, extending beyond targeted activity participation.
• Occupational therapists play a key role in facilitating positive outcomes and supporting parental needs.
• Findings support PREP as a valuable therapeutic option for promoting health and participation.