Objective and subjective participation mediate the relationship between developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and well-being aspects

Purpose

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is associated with poor well-being and objective participation (i.e., frequency of engagement in activities, performance level) and decreased subjective participation (i.e., pleasure in activities, occupational experience). However, the effect of participation on individuals with DCDs well-being remains unknown. This study examined the mediating effect of participation on the relationship between DCD and two well-being aspects - health related quality of life (HRQoL) and satisfaction with life (SWL).

Methods

Fifty-five adults with DCD and their 61 non-DCD peers underwent a test-battery to determine fulfillment of DSM-5's DCD criteria and completed participation and well-being questionnaires.

Results

Compared to their non-DCD peers, adults with DCD had significantly (p < 0.01) poorer HRQoL, SWL and participation, manifested by an elevated need for help in performing activities, poor performance, and reduced pleasure and global occupational experience. Path analysis showed that performance mediated the link between DCD and HRQoL, while pleasure mediated the link between DCD and SWL. Global occupational experience mediated the link between DCD and both well-being aspects.

Conclusions

Both objective and subjective participation are possible underling factors of poor well-being in DCD. Health-care professionals are encouraged to address both performance and subjective participation experiences to support the well-being of individuals with DCD.