Measuring support needs in children with motor disability: Validity and utility of the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS-C)

Abstract

BackgroundIt is unknown whether the Supports Intensity Scale-Children’s version (SIS-C) is valid and useful to assess support needs for children with motor and intellectual disabilities. Aims(a) To assess the structural validity of the SIS-C using factor analyses in a sample of children with motor disabilities; and (b) to analyze the SIS-C’s reliability and its discriminative capacity in children with different levels of motor function. Methods and ProceduresA cross-sectional design was used to assess 210 children (aged 5–16 years). Among them, 88% had an intellectual disability and 84% had cerebral palsy, with variations in mobility (Gross Motor Function Classification System; level V: 56.19%), handling of objects (Manual Ability Classification System; level V: 38.09%), and communicating (Communication Function Classification System; level V: 42.86%). Outcomes and ResultsThe model with seven support needs factors and three method factors showed the best fit. The support needs model was reliable and indicated high convergent validity. However, the SIS-C scores showed a strong ceiling effect in children with more significant limitations in gross and fine motor functions. Conclusions and ImplicationsThe seven-dimensional model of support needs could be replicated in children with motor disabilities. However, the usefulness of SIS-C is limited in discriminating between children with greater restrictions in mobility and handling of objects.