Validation of yoga module for children with intellectual disabilities

Children with developmental disabilities generally experience more pain than the normal children due to chronic systemic conditions associated with their disability. Description of pain is generally difficult in children and more so in children with intellectual disabilities (IDs). Yoga has been regarded as a kind of physical activity as well as a pain management strategy. Previous studies have reported the beneficial role of yoga in enhancing physical and psychomotor abilities of IDs; however, a validated yoga module (YM) for IDs is unavailable. The present study is aimed at developing a validated YM for children with IDs.

The content validity of YM for children with IDs was assessed by a panel of 22 experienced yoga experts. The YM for children with IDs was developed in the form of tailor-made yoga practices that were supported by classical texts and research evidence. A total of 32 practices were included in the YM, and each practice was discussed and rated as (i) not essential, (ii) useful but not essential, and (iii) essential. The content validitity ratiowas calculated using Lawshe's formula.

Data analysis showed that out of 32 YM practices, 31 indicated significant content validity (cutoff value: 0.42, as calculated by applying Lawshe's formula for the CVR).

The present study suggests that the YM for children with IDs is valid with good content validity. However, future randomized controlled trials must determine the feasibility and efficacy of the developed YM for children with IDs.