Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration® Praxis Tests: Construct Validity and Internal Reliability.

Abstract

Assessment of praxis using valid and reliable measures is important for understanding factors affecting occupational participation. To evaluate evidence of construct validity and internal reliability of data gathered with four newly developed praxis tests. Comparative descriptive design. Homes, schools, and therapy practices across the United States. A control group consisting of 163 children without any concerns or diagnoses and a case group of 145 children with sensory integration difficulties, ages 3 to 12 yr. Rasch analyses to evaluate construct validity, and Student's t tests to evaluate group differences. Total test scores and most item scores conformed to Rasch model expectations. Group differences were significant; the control group scored higher. Internal reliability was strong. Findings support the validity and internal reliability of the four praxis tests. What This Article Adds: This study adds to the growing body of evidence for validity and reliability of the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration® tests.