Knowledge of physical therapists about developmental coordination disorder in Fortaleza, Brazil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/Keywords:
Developmental Coordination Disorder, Knowledge, Motor Disorders, PhysiotherapyAbstract
The study sought to analyze whether
undergraduate students and physical therapy professionals
have the necessary knowledge to intervene with children with
developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and whether they
can identify their terms, concepts and motor and psychosocial
characteristics. The sample was divided into two groups:
professionals (n=45) and physical therapy students (n=16),
who responded to a questionnaire based on previous studies
on the topic, presented via an online form. Data collection
occurred over 12 weeks, and the data were descriptively
analyzed, presenting absolute and relative response
frequencies. All 61 participants indicated a lack of knowledge
about DCD. Although the term was considered more familiar
among students (56.2%) compared to professionals (48.8%),
all participants, overall, demonstrated limited knowledge
about aspects related to the definition, prevalence, and
identification of DCD. Participants highlighted the need for
additional training on the subject. It was evident that due to
the lack of knowledge about DCD, strategies to disseminate
information about the topic are essential. This is crucial for
incorporating DCD into common diagnostic possibilities for
the pediatric population, particularly in regional contexts.
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