Sensory Profile-2 in Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Analysis within the International Classification of Functioning,...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents significant functional challenges requiring extensive interventions.
• The Sensory Profile™ 2 (SP-2) is a key assessment tool for children with ASD.
• The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) provides a standardized framework for functioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the SP-2 assessment tool to the ICF-CY classification system.
• To identify the functional dimensions covered by the SP-2 in relation to ASD.
• To compare SP-2 coverage with the ICF Core Set for autism (ICF-CS).

Main Methods:

• Deductive content analysis using ICF Linking Rules.
• Systematic process incorporating statistical techniques (Cohen's Kappa, percentage of agreement).
• Analysis of 218 identified ICF-CY codes linked to SP-2 items.

Main Results:

• 71% of linked codes pertained to body functions (e.g., perceptual, emotional, temperament).
• 29% of linked codes related to activities and participation (e.g., focusing attention, daily routines, walking).
• SP-2 shows limited alignment with essential ASD ICF-CS features but covers many body function issues.

Conclusions:

• The SP-2 assessment primarily captures body function impairments in children with ASD.
• SP-2 has limited scope regarding activity and participation domains essential for ASD.
• SP-2 can be a component of a broader assessment strategy to guide functional interventions for ASD.