Daily Participation Experiences of Adolescents With Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is characterized by impaired motor coordination and co-occurring deficits in executive function that significantly affect daily participation. There is limited understanding of the participation of adolescents with DCD, in particular in the domains of household chores, community mobility and driving, education, and work.

To explore the strengths and challenges experienced by adolescents with DCD in their participation across multiple occupational domains.

Qualitative descriptive secondary analysis.

Community.

Adolescents with DCD (N = 11), ages 13-18 yr.

Interviews were analyzed with a directed approach to elicit participation experiences in activities of daily living (ADLs), household chores and responsibilities, community mobility and driving, education, work, and leisure and social activities.

The analysis revealed cross-domain participation patterns characterized by effortful performance and inefficiency, where significant effort often did not lead to successful outcomes. Challenges with motor coordination, organization, and spatial orientation affected performance in activities ranging from ADLs and education to household chores, team sports, and leisure pursuits. Despite these difficulties, participation in education emerged as a relative strength. The participants described adapting to challenges by gravitating toward leisure activities that aligned with their abilities and were enjoyable. They perceived their interpersonal and social performance as an area of strength.

The findings provide an in-depth understanding of the daily participation experiences of adolescents with DCD, highlighting both challenges and strengths, and emphasize the need for support services for individuals with DCD during adolescence, which can be informed by using a strengths-based approach. Plain-Language Summary: We explored how teens with developmental coordination disorder take part in daily activities, such as those related to self-care, chores, school, work, and social life. Experiences varied: The participants said that movement and organization tasks felt difficult, but other activities brought joy. Some teens adapted by choosing activities that matched their strengths, leading to success and enjoyment. However, difficulties in activities also affected emotions, causing frustration when tasks were hard and boosting self-esteem when they did well. This study provides a better understanding of the daily experiences and feelings of teens with developmental coordination disorder.