Comparison of international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) based assessment results in children with autism spectrum disorder and typically developing children

Our study was designed to examine the body functions, activity independence levels and participation levels of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) holistically within the framework of ICF and compare them with typically developing children, to reveal similarities/differences and to determine the children's functionality profiles. 27 boys aged 5-10 were included in both groups. Evaluations of the groups regarding their body functions, activity independence levels and participation levels were made based on the ICF framework. Body functions were evaluated using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Motor Proficiency 2 Test Short Form (BOT 2-SF) and Dunn Sensory Profile, activity independence levels were evaluated using the Pediatric Disability Assessment Inventory (PEDİ), and participation levels were evaluated using the Child and Adolescent Participation Scale (CASP). It was found that the motor proficiency levels, sensory profiles, activity independence levels and participation levels of children with ASD were weaker than typically developing children (p<0.05). It was determined that as the motor proficiency level of children with ASD and typically developing children increased, their activity independence and participation levels increased (p<0.05), and that the children's sensory profiles did not affect their activity independence and participation levels (p>0.05). It was also found that as children's activity independence level increased, their participation levels increased (p<0.05). Our study showed that the motor proficiency levels of children with ASD and typically developing children significantly affected their activity independence level and participation level. It was understood that increasing children's motor proficiency levels in ASD rehabilitation has an important role in ensuring activity independence and increasing their participation in daily life. Key words: ASD, ICF, sensory profile, motor proficiency, physical therapy and rehabilitation