Affiliations: The Division of Occupational Therapy, University of
Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Louise Dunn, ScD., OTR/L, The
Division of Occupational Therapy, 520 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108,
USA. Tel.: +1 801 587 9356; Fax: +1 801 585 1001; E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: Objective: This case study explored how household task engagement
influenced participation in the home, community and work for a youth with
multiple disabilities. Participants: Participants were the first author's
single father and her brother, who has spina bifida and intellectual
disability. Methods: Researchers used a case study design with mixed
methods. Quantitative repeated measures included the Canadian Occupational
Performance Measure (COPM), the Children Helping Out: Responsibilities,
Expectations, and Supports (CHORES), and the Arc's Self-determination Scale
(SDS). Qualitative data was collected from interviews and observations and was
analyzed using a constant comparison method. Results: Visual analysis
revealed gains in self-determination and in performance and satisfaction on the
COPM. At follow-up, the father reported his son did more self-care household
tasks and was more independent with these tasks. Family-care household task
performance declined and father reported relatively no change in assistance.
Qualitative findings illuminated the strategies and the processes that evolved
through collaboration amongst the youth, the therapist, and the father. Conclusions: The son's competence with a daily household task increased
positive perceptions of his capabilities that led to increased participation
and independence in home, community, and work activities. Interventions
addressing adaptations, development of self-determination skills, and parental
education promoted these changes.
