Res Dev Disabil [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Short report: Patterns of motor difficulties among autistic, ADHD, or Autistic-ADHD youth in Iceland.
Hannesdottir DK, Isleifsdottir M, Abdollahipour R
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42401139 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Research indicates motor delays in youth with ADHD or autism, but patterns in co-occurring ADHD and autism remain under-explored. This study compared motor performance in youth with co-occurring conditions wi...
BACKGROUND: Research indicates motor delays in youth with ADHD or autism, but patterns in co-occurring ADHD and autism remain under-explored. This study compared motor performance in youth with co-occurring conditions with that of single-diagnosis groups. METHODS: A sample of 122 stimulant medication naïve children in Iceland (Mage = 9.06 ± 1.95 years) diagnosed with ADHD (n = 77), autism (n = 15), or both (n = 30), without intellectual impairment, was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-Second Edition. RESULTS: Kruskal-Wallis test results showed a significant effect for percentile rank, with post-hoc comparisons revealing the Autism group scored significantly lower than both the ADHD and Autism + ADHD groups. Similarly, for the total test score, significant differences were found, with the Autism group again scoring lower than both the ADHD and Autism + ADHD groups. Across subscales, significant group effects were found for Balance, where the Autism group underperformed both the ADHD and Autism + ADHD groups; Aiming and Catching, where the Autism group scored lower than the ADHD group; and Manual Dexterity, where the Autism group scored lower than the Autism + ADHD group. No significant differences were found between the ADHD and Autism + ADHD groups on any measure. CONCLUSION: Youth with co-occurring ADHD and autism demonstrate motor performance levels similar to those with ADHD only, with both groups outperforming the Autism group. These findings suggest that the presence of ADHD symptoms may relate to distinct motor trajectories in autism.
Understanding coaches' perspectives on sport as a driver of employability-related soft skills in athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Messiaen C, Van Biesen D, Burns J … +2 more , Reina R, Roldan A
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42398388 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: In an evolving global workforce, soft skills (personal, non-technical) are increasingly essential, yet individuals with intellectual disabilities face employment barriers. Sports participation offers a unique...
BACKGROUND: In an evolving global workforce, soft skills (personal, non-technical) are increasingly essential, yet individuals with intellectual disabilities face employment barriers. Sports participation offers a unique context to foster these skills, but coaches' awareness and strategies to support their development remain underexplored. This study aimed to explore coaches' perspectives on the role of sport in fostering soft skills among athletes with intellectual disabilities and their relevance for employability. METHOD: Underpinned by a pragmatic paradigm, this study interviewed 30 licensed coaches working with athletes with intellectual disabilities. All from Spain and Andorra with experience in national or international competitions across different sports (i.e., basketball, futsal, swimming). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis through an abductive lens, iteratively moving between participant narratives and existing frameworks of employability. RESULTS: The analysis revealed that while coaches value soft skills, they demonstrate limited initial awareness of the direct link between sport and employment. Technical training is consistently prioritized over soft skills development, which is viewed as an inherent outcome of sport. Coaches identified athlete strengths and developmental gaps. These results are further analysed through four main themes: (1) sport-employability relationship; (2) soft skill development; (3) key soft skills for employment identified through sport; and (4) athletes' skill progression. CONCLUSIONS: Coaches notice soft skill development but rarely apply explicit strategies. The identified gaps in coach awareness suggest that structured training and interventions could support coaches in intentionally cultivating these skills through their trainings, thereby enhancing the employability and social inclusion of athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Differential effects of physical activity interventions on gross and fine motor difficulties in children with autism spectrum disorder: Insights from a multilevel meta-analysis with moderator analyses.
Peng C, He J, Xu K … +3 more , Wu X, Wang D, Zhang L
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42296588 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Difficulties in gross and fine motor skills negatively affect the healthy development of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet evidence for physical activity interventions (PAIs) remains limited a...
BACKGROUND: Difficulties in gross and fine motor skills negatively affect the healthy development of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet evidence for physical activity interventions (PAIs) remains limited and inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the differential effects of PAIs on gross and fine motor difficulties in children with ASD and to explore potential moderators. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, empirical studies published from inception to April 21, 2026 were systematically searched across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus. Effect sizes were synthesized using a three-level random-effects model and were expressed as Hedges' g (g). Moderator effects were examined using subgroup and meta-regression analyses. RESULTS: Forty-four studies (1311 children aged 2-16 years) were included. PAIs significantly improved gross motor skills (g = 0.87, I² = 66.3%), with significant effects observed for locomotor (g = 0.92), manipulation (g = 0.83), balance (g = 0.80), and coordination (g = 0.52). Improvements in fine motor skills were not significant (g = 0.26, I² = 63.9%), including manual dexterity (g = 0.44) and fine motor integration (g = 0.09). Organized form, intervention setting and providers significantly moderated effects on overall and gross motor skills (p < 0.05). Group-based interventions delivered by educators or coaches in inclusive settings showed greater effects. Meta-regression revealed a positive association between improvements in locomotor and total sessions (β = 0.017, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: PAIs improve gross motor skills and related outcomes in children with ASD. Group-based interventions delivered by educators or coaches in inclusive settings may be particularly effective. Further rigorous studies are needed to clarify effects on fine motor skills and determine the optimal intervention dose.
Does parenting stress affect marital quality among parents of children with disabilities? Evidence from a meta-analysis.
Liu J, Guan W, Zhang Y … +1 more , Xie Z
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42296587 · Publisher ↗
Parenting stress is an important factor associated with the marital quality of parents of children with disabilities, yet the results regarding their relationship have been inconsistent in previous studies. This study em...
Parenting stress is an important factor associated with the marital quality of parents of children with disabilities, yet the results regarding their relationship have been inconsistent in previous studies. This study employed a meta-analytic approach, utilizing a random-effects model to examine the association between parenting stress and marital quality and the role of potential moderators based on 29 studies (comprising 47 effect sizes). The results indicated a moderate negative correlation (r = -0.333, 95% CI = [-0.414, -0.246]) between parenting stress and marital quality among parents of children with disabilities. This relationship was moderated by parents' age, severity of disabilities, and cultural background. However, the correlation was not influenced by parental role, parents' educational attainment, children's type of disability, children's age, and measurement instruments. The findings suggest a close association between parenting stress and marital quality, thereby supporting the spillover hypothesis, which posits that stress and emotions from one family subsystem (e.g., parent-child) transfer to another (e.g., marital). Future research is recommended to adopt longitudinal studies to further elucidate the directionality of the relationship between parenting stress and marital quality among parents of children with disabilities.
"Others Decide for Us": Recommendations became restrictions in services for people with intellectual disability in Sweden.
Palmqvist L, Käcker P, Lidström H … +2 more , Danielsson H, Alfredsson Ågren K
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42296586 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Research on COVID-19 and people with intellectual disability has largely relied on proxy reports and early pandemic data, with limited focus on everyday policy implementation. In Sweden, where pandemic-relate...
BACKGROUND: Research on COVID-19 and people with intellectual disability has largely relied on proxy reports and early pandemic data, with limited focus on everyday policy implementation. In Sweden, where pandemic-related responses were based on recommendations rather than lockdowns, this raises questions about how participation was affected in practice. This study examined how people with intellectual disability receiving social services in Sweden experienced participation and involvement in everyday life during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how national recommendations were implemented in practice. METHOD: Five focus groups with 24 adults with mild to moderate intellectual disability were conducted in late 2022. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants described difficulties accessing understandable information and increased reliance on staff for interpreting recommendations. At the same time, they demonstrated knowledge of the virus and described actively following protective measures. Despite this, national recommendations were frequently translated by staff and managers into binding rules within housing and daily activities, limiting opportunities to influence decisions in everyday life. This resulted in experienced participation restrictions, including constraints on work, social contact, and use of shared spaces. Several participants also described ongoing consequences of these practices beyond the pandemic period. CONCLUSIONS: The findings show that, even without lockdowns, local implementation of recommendations can create de facto restrictions in everyday life, despite participants' ability to understand and follow public health measures. The study underscores how translating policy into practice within social services can affect participation in ways not visible at the policy level.
The effectiveness of a video-modeling-based treatment package for incontinence in children with and without developmental disabilities.
van Galen M, Huskens B, von Gontard A … +1 more , Didden R
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42296585 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Incontinence can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of children with different developmental profiles. Due to a growing emphasis on interventions that respect the individual's dignity, promote self-de...
BACKGROUND: Incontinence can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of children with different developmental profiles. Due to a growing emphasis on interventions that respect the individual's dignity, promote self-determination, and support meaningful participation in daily life, a video modeling based treatment package is an intervention that aligns with these values. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a video-modeling based treatment package on the incontinence in children with and without developmental disabilities. METHOD: The current study used a single-case research design using a multiple probe design across participants. The sample consisted of 12 children, of whom five had average intelligence, six children scored within the mild to moderate range and one child had a severe intellectual disability and who displayed daytime urinary incontinence and/or fecal incontinence/constipation. Data were analyzed using visual analysis of the multiple probe design and effect sizes were calculated using Tau-U and Cohens h scores. RESULTS: The data showed that 83% of the children who exhibited episodes of fecal incontinence achieved a full treatment response, whereas 17% demonstrated a partial response. Among the three children with constipation accompanied by severe stool-withholding behavior (i.e., no toilet defecation during baseline), all subsequently learned to produce successful bowel movements in the toilet. Of the nine children with daytime urinary incontinence, 67% achieved a full response and 33% showed a partial response. Tau-U analyses indicated a large effect of the intervention on reducing episodes of urinary incontinence, a moderate effect on increasing successful bowel movements, and a small effect on reducing episodes of fecal incontinence. Additionally, the intervention produced a large effect (h ≥ 0.80) in teaching 78% of the children to perform toileting behaviors independently. CONCLUSION: A video-modeling based intervention may be effective in reducing episodes of urinary and/or fecal incontinence in children and may simultaneously promote greater independence by increasing independent toileting skills. Therefore, when standard interventions are not sufficient, video modeling can be a useful and effective component of specific urotherapy that can be provided in an outpatient setting.
"The absolute dearth of resources": Challenges and unmet support needs for emerging adult siblings of individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions in regional and remote Australia.
Antonio S, Jamieson K, Dorozenko KP … +2 more , Glasson EJ, Maxwell-Smith C
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42275891 · Publisher ↗
Siblings of individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions have unique experiences and sometimes additional challenges, especially in rural areas where there may be limited access to sibling-specific support services. Th...
Siblings of individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions have unique experiences and sometimes additional challenges, especially in rural areas where there may be limited access to sibling-specific support services. This mixed-methods study examined the relationships of three known protective factors (resilience, social support, and general family functioning) with the wellbeing of siblings residing in regional and remote areas of Australia. To better understand the factors that shape their wellbeing, we also explored the challenges these siblings experience and their perspectives on unmet needs. We surveyed 93 siblings who were predominantly women (79.6%), with a mean age of 23 (range=16-30). Pearson's correlations between resilience (r = .68), social support (r = .74), and general family functioning (r = -.55) and measures of wellbeing were strong and significant (p < .001). A reflexive thematic analysis identified a narrative of sibling perspectives, represented by three themes, which reflected the dearth of resources available in rural areas, the importance of being seen as an individual, and the feelings of pressure, expectation, and invisibility that often accompany the sibling experience. When examining quantitative and qualitative data together, it was observed that being female or non-binary, and poor family functioning were important factors that underpinned many of the expressed challenges and areas of unmet need for siblings. Findings suggest avenues for approaching systemic barriers, ameliorating isolation and stigma, and harnessing interventions focused within rural communities to protect against future clinical needs.
"Make it a childhood memory and not a therapeutic memory": Young people's experience of early childhood intervention in Australia.
Imms C, Lami F, Yates M … +7 more , Pinto C, Kozelj N, Symonds R, Knight S, Kakoschke-Moore S, Luscombe D, Wilson M
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42259164 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Young people with developmental concerns, delay or disability should have a voice in issues that are important in their lives. While many young people have expressed that early childhood intervention (ECI) wa...
BACKGROUND: Young people with developmental concerns, delay or disability should have a voice in issues that are important in their lives. While many young people have expressed that early childhood intervention (ECI) was necessary and beneficial, some have reported having distressing experiences. Understanding and responding to the perspectives of young people contributes to improved services and outcomes for children with disability and their families. OBJECTIVES: (a) To explore and describe the experiences of young people (15 - 32 years) who received ECI services in Australia during childhood, and (b) to learn about young people's perspectives and ideas about 'best practice' in ECI. METHODS: Following an expression of interest phase, semi-structured interviews (n = 21) were conducted with purposively selected young people. Interview transcripts were analysed using an inductive thematic qualitative analysis approach. FINDINGS: The data were organised into six key themes: (1) Upholding children's rights; (2) Understanding children and supporting them to learn about themselves; (3) Helping families find the supports they need; (4) Functional, meaningful and individualised; (5) Holistic, family-centred and collaborative supports; and (6) Positive and negative impacts. CONCLUSION: Insights from young people increase our understanding of the way that ECI is experienced by children, as well as the longer-term outcomes of ECI. Findings are relevant for informing policies, guidelines and education initiatives. These measures ensure that children with disability and their families receive services that are safe, effective, and lead to optimal outcomes.
Cross-domain spontaneous tempo differences in adults with developmental dyslexia: Evidence from speech and gait.
Cannavacciuolo G, Marchetti R, Vaugoyeau M … +3 more , Colé P, Pinto S, Assaiante C
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42235214 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Developmental Dyslexia (DD) has historically been associated with phonological impairments though difficulties may be identified across cognitive and sensorimotor domains. The Temporal Sampling Framework prop...
BACKGROUND: Developmental Dyslexia (DD) has historically been associated with phonological impairments though difficulties may be identified across cognitive and sensorimotor domains. The Temporal Sampling Framework proposed that atypical neural entrainment to temporal structure may underlie difficulties beyond phonological impairments in DD. However, tempo differences are inconsistently reported in the literature, particularly for ecologically valid, spontaneous motor tasks. AIMS: The present study examined whether university-aged adults with DD differ from skilled readers in spontaneous tempo across speech and gait domains, and whether any observed differences are consistent with domain-general or domain-specific accounts of timing in DD. METHODS: One-hundred and ten university students (52 with DD, 58 skilled readers) completed four self-paced tempo tasks, including oral diadochokinesis, text reading fluency, natural gait, and tandem gait. Kinematic analysis and audio recording were used to derive cadence and speech rate measures. RESULTS: Adults with DD produced consistently slower spontaneous tempo than skilled readers across all four tasks. These differences persisted when participants with sensorimotor comorbidity (DRSM, N = 14) were excluded from the DD group. Additionally, the DRSM group exhibited lower oral diadochokinetic rate than the DD group but performed similarly across the other tasks. Modest but significant positive correlations between speech and gait tempo were observed across the full cohort. DISCUSSION: These findings provide evidence for a cross-domain spontaneous tempo deficit in DD that is consistent with a partially domain-general model of timing impairment. The persistence of tempo differences into adulthood suggests that timing differences might reflect stable neurocognitive characteristics of DD.
Psychometric properties of the Norwegian CAMDEX-DS-II and CAMCOG-DS-II for dementia assessment in adults with Down syndrome: A national multi-site clinical study.
Larsen FK, Medbøen IT, Strydom A … +3 more , Selbæk G, Strand BH, Langballe EM
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42235213 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Adults with Down syndrome (DS) have a high dementia risk, highlighting the need for robust, DS-specific assessment tools. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the CAMDE...
BACKGROUND: Adults with Down syndrome (DS) have a high dementia risk, highlighting the need for robust, DS-specific assessment tools. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the CAMDEX-DS-II by examining reliability and validity of the informant interview and the CAMCOG-DS-II cognitive assessment. METHOD: In this nationwide study, 108 adults with DS were assessed across 19 hospital units during 2021-2023. Participants underwent a standardised dementia assessment including the CAMDEX-DS-II battery. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, weighted kappa, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), while validity was evaluated using factor analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, and external cognitive and functional measures. RESULTS: The CAMDEX-DS-II informant interview demonstrated good to excellent psychometric properties, with high internal consistency (α ≥ 0.83) in core cognitive-functional sections and strong inter-rater reliability, with most items showing excellent weighted kappa (κ ≥ 0.80). Scores aligned closely with clinician-determined diagnostic classifications. The CAMCOG-DS-II showed very good internal consistency (α = 0.84) and excellent inter-rater reliability (ICCs ≥ 0.90). CAMCOG-DS-II total and domain scores differed significantly across diagnostic groups, with moderate-to-large effect sizes. ROC analyses indicated good overall diagnostic accuracy, with areas under the curve (AUCs) > 0.80, and particularly strong discrimination in individuals with mild ID. CONCLUSIONS: The Norwegian CAMDEX-DS-II provides reliable indicators of dementia-related change in adults with DS. The combined informant interview and cognitive assessment provided evidence based on relations to diagnostic classification and external measures, supporting their clinical utility in the specialist services and contributing to the international evidence base.
Determinants of hyperfocus in the context of escapism and gaming motivations, flow, and ADHD symptoms among adult video gamers.
Pyszkowska A, Nowacki A, Dziura N
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42229071 · Publisher ↗
Individuals with ADHD often engage in highly stimulating activities, such as gaming, which may be accompanied by hyperfocus, a state of intense concentration characterized by a sense of timelessness and complete absorpti...
Individuals with ADHD often engage in highly stimulating activities, such as gaming, which may be accompanied by hyperfocus, a state of intense concentration characterized by a sense of timelessness and complete absorption. Although many previous studies focused on links between ADHD and gaming addiction, little is known about motivational aspects of gaming engagement in this population, especially in the context of hyperfocus. Therefore, the aims of the current study were to 1) establish determinants of hyperfocus and its relationships with gaming motivation, flow, and escapism when controlling for ADHD symptoms and ADHD diagnosis, and 2) understand potential differences in hyperfocus and gaming motivation experiences between video gamers with and without a formal ADHD diagnosis. A total of 401 individuals participated in a cross-sectional study (including 174 with a formal ADHD diagnosis, 230 men, M = 28.32 (SD = 6.14). The results showed that hyperfocus had the strongest associations with ADHD symptoms (rho=.386, p < .01), flow (rho=.292, p < .001), and external regulation of gaming motivation (rho=.283, p < .001). The quantile regression model revealed that, despite some similarities, hyperfocus and flow showed distinct associations with types of escapism and attention symptoms. The U Mann-Whitney analysis showed that gamers with ADHD, compared to those from the general population, scored significantly higher in hyperfocus (U=31794.000, p < .001) and flow (U=22825.000, p < .01). These findings challenge the assumption that hyperfocus and flow are interchangeable and highlight the need to consider hyperfocus as a separate construct in understanding gaming engagement among individuals with ADHD.
Comparative effects of different types of exercise on improving motor impairments in children and adolescents with Autism: A network meta-analysis.
Hou Y, Yan W, Deng Z … +3 more , Lei Z, Feng M, Song X
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42217454 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Motor impairments are highly prevalent and clinically relevant in children and adolescents with ASD, yet the relative effects of different exercise modalities on motor function remain unclear. METHODS: We con...
BACKGROUND: Motor impairments are highly prevalent and clinically relevant in children and adolescents with ASD, yet the relative effects of different exercise modalities on motor function remain unclear. METHODS: We conducted an NMA of RCTs evaluating structured exercise interventions versus control in children and adolescents with ASD aged 3-18 years. Eligible trials included interventions lasting ≥ 4 weeks and reported standardized motor outcomes (e.g. TGMD/TGMD-2, BOT/BOT-2, MABC/MABC-2). Exercise programs were grouped into six modalities: CT, AS, BG, MSG, MBE and ES. A random-effects NMA was performed to estimate standardized mean differences (SMDs) and derive P-scores. Network heterogeneity and inconsistency were assessed using Q statistics and node-splitting. Small-study effects and potential publication bias were examined with funnel plots, Egger tests, trim-and-fill and selection models. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using CINeMA. RESULTS: Sixteen RCTs conducted in ten countries met the inclusion criteria. Exercise overall was associated with a moderate-to-large improvement in motor outcomes versus control (study-level pooled SMD 0.81, 95% CI 0.51-1.11). At the modality level, CT showed the largest benefit (SMD 1.10, 95% CI 0.61-1.60; P-score 0.81), followed by AS (SMD 0.69, 95% CI 0.34-1.10; P-score 0.78). BG (SMD 0.65, 95% CI 0.18-1.10; P-score 0.62; one trial) and MSG, MBE and ES (SMDs 0.23-0.47) showed small-to-moderate, statistically uncertain effects. Network heterogeneity and inconsistency were low, but funnel plots, Egger tests and selection models indicated small-study effects and potential publication bias, with bias-adjusted pooled SMDs decreasing to small-to-moderate magnitudes. CINeMA rated most comparisons as low or very low certainty, mainly due to within-study bias, reporting/publication bias and imprecision. CONCLUSIONS: Structured exercise appears to yield group-level improvements in motor outcomes in ASD, with CT and AS emerging as promising modalities in this NMA. However, the certainty of the underlying evidence is low, and small-study effects may inflate some estimates. These findings should be interpreted cautiously and considered hypothesis-generating; larger, rigorously reported RCTs with harmonised motor outcomes are needed to confirm or revise the current modality rankings.
Regulating Together: Caregivers' experiences in a shared journey through an emotion dysregulation intervention for autistic youth.
Kang S, Burkett K, Sarawgi S … +5 more , Ruberg J, Paustian J, Reisinger DL, Schmitt LM, Shaffer RC
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42217453 · Publisher ↗
Autistic children are more likely to experience challenges with emotion regulation, which affect their academic, social, and other developmental outcomes. Emerging manualized programs have begun to address this gap, incl...
Autistic children are more likely to experience challenges with emotion regulation, which affect their academic, social, and other developmental outcomes. Emerging manualized programs have begun to address this gap, including Regulating Together (RT), a group-based outpatient intervention that incorporates concurrent caregiver training. This qualitative study explored caregivers' perceptions and experiences with the RT intervention. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve caregivers of autistic children following program completion within a randomized controlled trial. Thematic analysis identified six overarching themes: (1) recognizing early signs and building child regulation skills, (2) caregivers' experiences of program value, structure, and application, (3) caregivers' growth as self-regulated learners and supportive coaches, (4) the power of communal learning and growth, (5) creating inclusive spaces through diverse voices, and (6) ecological barriers that impeded practice and participation. Caregivers described benefits of participating in RT and reported positive outcomes for both themselves and their children. Overall, the RT model shows nuanced dyadic child and caregiver learning and growth in addressing emotion dysregulation in autistic children and offers a potentially inclusive model for supporting families. Findings also signify how ecological challenges shaped participation and implementation, highlighting the need for future manualized interventions to account for contextual factors in program design and delivery. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial registration took place through ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05803369).
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on technology-based interventions for elementary students with reading difficulties.
Alqahtani SS
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42208116 · Publisher ↗
Technology-based reading interventions have been widely adopted to support elementary students with reading difficulties; however, empirical findings regarding their effectiveness and the instructional conditions under w...
Technology-based reading interventions have been widely adopted to support elementary students with reading difficulties; however, empirical findings regarding their effectiveness and the instructional conditions under which they are most effective remain inconsistent. This meta-analysis synthesized evidence from 30 randomized controlled trials published between 2010 and 2025, representing 39 experimental contrasts, 160 effect sizes, and 4851 participants, all of whom were students with reading difficulties across both intervention and control groups. A multilevel meta-analytic approach was employed to account for statistical dependence among effect sizes within studies. Moderator analyses examined whether intervention effects differed according to targeted reading skill, grade level, instructional setting, participant identification status, and intervention duration. Results indicated a statistically significant overall effect of technology-based reading interventions (g = 0.35, 95% CI [0.23, 0.48], p < .001), corresponding to a small-to-moderate improvement in reading outcomes. None of the examined moderators significantly explained variability in effect sizes. These findings provide experimental evidence supporting the effectiveness of technology-based reading interventions for elementary students with reading difficulties and suggest that intervention effects are robust across instructional and learner characteristics.
"There is a soil shortage in delivering services for fathers": Qualitative inquiry into service challenges and opportunities for fathers with disabled children: The practitioners' perspectives.
Lo KC, Wan NS
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42202673 · Publisher ↗
Drawing on a decade of research highlighting fathers' essential contributions to child development, this study notes that systemic, cultural, and institutional barriers continue to limit fathers' involvement, despite evi...
Drawing on a decade of research highlighting fathers' essential contributions to child development, this study notes that systemic, cultural, and institutional barriers continue to limit fathers' involvement, despite evidence of their positive impact. The research sought to capture practitioners' perspectives on these challenges and opportunities and to identify actionable strategies for improving father engagement and informing policy. A qualitative methodology was adopted, utilizing focus group discussions with 26 practitioners from NGOs and schools serving children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Data collection, combining semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, guided by ecological systems theory and relationship-based models, revealed a multidimensional "soil shortage"- according to practitioners, there is a pervasive lack of foundational support for fathers, who must face barriers ranging from a plethora of unsuited service schedules to entrenched gender roles, maternal gatekeeping, and systemic stigma. The findings showed that while practitioners generally acknowledged the importance of including fathers and possessed high confidence in their abilities to engage, father-specific strategies and organizational support remain insufficient. The practitioners' recommendations highlight the need for more systematic, inclusive, and stigma-reducing approaches in an effort to better support fathers of children with disabilities and, ultimately, improve outcomes for families.
What do the records say: Autism spectrum disorder and higher education.
Cox JC, Tass ESN, Vogeler HA … +9 more , Andrus ES, Frandsen C, Gabrielsen TP, Orton A, Probst R, McKinnon KK, Heath J, Higham M, Preator B
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42167091 · Publisher ↗
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report experiencing many difficulties associated with ASD and the pursuit of higher education. This study examines 34 years of data from a large private university in the U...
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report experiencing many difficulties associated with ASD and the pursuit of higher education. This study examines 34 years of data from a large private university in the U.S., comparing students with autism who registered with disability services (n = 177) to matched neurotypical peers on several academic record variables. Results indicate that students with ASD had more failing grades, were more likely to be put on academic discipline status and demonstrated lower average GPAs than their matched peers. Interestingly, autistic students who transferred to the university appeared to have somewhat better academic outcomes than students with autism who began their academic careers at the university. Although these findings are limited to a single institution, they provide valuable insights regarding the experience of students with ASD in higher education. Future research can seek to replicate these findings at other universities, and target sources of academic distress for students with ASD. Additionally, support programs at universities can investigate effectiveness of programming and services for autistic students.
Setting the research priorities for Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)/Dyspraxia in the UK.
Purcell C, Donnelly A, Bishop H … +12 more , Dahl A, Gentle J, Hill E, Kirby A, Mason A, McQuillan V, Meek A, Scott-Roberts S, Shaw K, Sotire T, Wolffs S, Wilmut K
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42161018 · Publisher ↗
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as Dyspraxia, is a common neurodevelopmental condition associated with lifelong fine and / or gross motor challenges. Despite its prevalence, DCD remains under-resear...
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as Dyspraxia, is a common neurodevelopmental condition associated with lifelong fine and / or gross motor challenges. Despite its prevalence, DCD remains under-researched and no stakeholder-led research priority-setting exercise has previously been undertaken. A James Lind Alliance (JLA) Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) was conducted to identify and prioritise unanswered research questions for DCD in the UK. Individuals with living experience (N = 7), health and education professionals (N = 3) and academics (N = 3) formed a Steering Group. Uncertainties were collected via a national survey, processed and verified against existing evidence and refined into summary questions. An interim prioritisation survey informed a final consensus workshop to agree the Top 10 research priorities. A total of 308 participants contributed 920 uncertainties, resulting in 50 summary research questions across seven overarching themes which were ranked by 222 participants in the interim prioritisation survey. This resulted in 18 high-ranking questions for discussion at the final workshop with adults (N = 9), parents (N = 3) and practitioners (N = 5). Consensus was reached on a Top 10 list of research priorities, which emphasised emotional and social wellbeing, early diagnosis and intervention, non-motor challenges, education, adulthood and ageing, diagnostic pathways, cultural and ethnic influences and needs-based approaches to support. This study establishes the first stakeholder-driven research agenda for DCD. The identified priorities highlight the need for research that adopts a lifespan perspective, addresses psychosocial and non-motor challenges and reflects the living experiences of diverse DCD populations. Aligning future research with these priorities will improve the relevance, coherence and impact of the DCD evidence base.
Employment trajectories of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A 7-year longitudinal study.
Lee CE, Oh M
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jul · PMID 42142507 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to identify the subtypes of the longitudinal changes in employment profile of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to examine their determinants. A total of 339 individuals wi...
This study aimed to identify the subtypes of the longitudinal changes in employment profile of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to examine their determinants. A total of 339 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the national panel survey collected from 2016 to 2021 were included for a latent class analysis. The results yielded four latent classes: stable unemployment (64.6%); increasing employment (3.5%); stable employment (23.6%); decreasing employment (8.3%). Using the stable unemployment class as the reference group, several correlates such as age, educational level, interpersonal and communication ability, and access to employment services emerged for the other three employment groups. Greater family support increased the likelihood of membership in the increasing employment class. In contrast, older age, lower family support, and experiences of societal discrimination were significant predictors of membership in the decreasing employment class. This study highlighted the importance of developing tailored interventions based on person-environment fit framework.
Effects of the ECogFun‑VR program on executive functioning in children and adolescents with ADHD: A randomized controlled trial.
Pérez-Rodríguez S, Gutiérrez-Ramírez C, Vidal-Ramírez C … +6 more , Ortiz-Rubio A, Garach-Gómez A, Triviño-Juárez JM, Arrabal-Fernández L, Medina-Martínez I, Romero-Ayuso D
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42105513 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Executive‑function (EF) difficulties, particularly in planning and organization, substantially limit daily‑life autonomy in children and adolescents with ADHD. Virtual reality (VR)-based interventions offer e...
BACKGROUND: Executive‑function (EF) difficulties, particularly in planning and organization, substantially limit daily‑life autonomy in children and adolescents with ADHD. Virtual reality (VR)-based interventions offer ecologically valid environments that may enhance strategy learning and promote functional generalization. This study evaluated the efficacy of ECogFun‑VR, a multimodal, manualized program integrating explicit EF strategy instruction with immersive VR practice. METHODS: A parallel‑group randomized controlled trial was conducted with 80 participants aged 9-17 years diagnosed with ADHD. Participants were allocated to ECogFun‑VR (n = 38) or a waitlist control group receiving standard pharmacological care (n = 42). The intervention comprised 12 weekly individual sessions. Assessments were completed at baseline (T0) and post‑intervention (T1). Primary outcomes were functional planning and daily‑life performance (Zoo Map subtest, W‑ADL). Secondary outcomes included parent‑reported EF (BRIEF‑2), emotional competencies (EQ‑i:YV), temporal organization (Time‑S), sensory‑executive functioning (EPYFEI‑Escolar), and neuropsychological indices (WISC‑IV Digit Span; NEPSY‑II Auditory Attention; TMT; Stroop). Analyses followed an ANCOVA‑adjusted intention‑to‑treat approach, complemented by Complier Average Causal Effect (CACE) estimates. RESULTS: No significant between‑group differences were found for primary outcomes (Zoo Map indices; W‑ADL). A significant improvement emerged for working‑memory manipulation (WISC‑IV Digit Span Backward) in the intervention group (p = .030, d = 0.50). Several secondary domains, including emotional‑interpersonal competencies and temporal organization, showed small‑to‑moderate, nonsignificant trends favoring the intervention. CACE analyses were consistent with the intention‑to‑treat results. CONCLUSIONS: The ECogFun‑VR program produced selective cognitive gains, particularly in working‑memory manipulation, but did not yield significant changes in higher‑order functional outcomes over 12 weeks. Findings suggest that planning and organization skills may require longer dosage, increased intensity, or enhanced generalization supports to achieve measurable functional change. VR‑supported EF interventions remain a promising avenue for targeted skill development in youth with ADHD.
Effectiveness of a mobile application-based program for enhancing independent menstrual management skills in adolescent girls with mild intellectual disabilities: A parallel-group randomized controlled trial.
Dikmen HA, Gönenç İM, Sarı H … +5 more , Caymaz S, Atbaşı Z, Çankaya S, Koçak F, Kaya E
Res Dev Disabil · 2026 Jun · PMID 42102577 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Adolescent girls with mild intellectual disabilities often face challenges in achieving independence in menstrual management, highlighting the need for structured and accessible educational interventions. Thi...
BACKGROUND: Adolescent girls with mild intellectual disabilities often face challenges in achieving independence in menstrual management, highlighting the need for structured and accessible educational interventions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a mobile application-based education program in improving independent menstrual management skills. METHODS: A parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted with 90 adolescent girls with mild intellectual disabilities and their mothers. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention or control group using a computer-generated sequence. The intervention group received a mobile application-based education program (Bağımsız Yapabilirim), which included instructional videos and interactive games for up to 30 min daily, while the control group received routine care. Outcomes (hand hygiene and pad-changing skills) were assessed at baseline and at 1, 3, and 8 months using structured Performance Record Sheets. Analyses were conducted according to the intention-to-treat principle using repeated-measures ANOVA based on multiply imputed datasets. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Intention-to-treat analyses based on multiply imputed datasets revealed significant time and group × time interaction effects for both outcomes (p < .001). Hand hygiene skills showed very large improvements (Group × Time: F(1.94, 171.02) = 49.31, p < .001, η²p = 0.359; post-intervention Cohen's d = 2.39-3.99), maintained across all follow-up assessments. Pad-changing skills also improved significantly, with medium-to-large effect sizes over time (Group × Time: F(2.38, 206.79) = 20.34, p < .001, η²p = 0.189; post-intervention Cohen's d = 0.75-1.39). No between-group differences were observed at baseline, whereas all follow-up assessments favored the intervention group (p ≤ .001). No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: The Bağımsız Yapabilirim mobile application is an effective and accessible intervention for enhancing menstrual self-management skills in adolescent girls with mild intellectual disabilities. The improvements were sustained over 8 months, demonstrating both statistical and clinical significance, and supporting the program's potential to promote independence and practical self-care competence in this population.
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