Abstract
Methods
An electronic search of the literature was conducted using Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL, ERIC, OT Seeker, and the Cochrane
library using relevant MESH heading and key words. An inductive thematic analysis was used to synthesize main findings from
the studies. The mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.
library using relevant MESH heading and key words. An inductive thematic analysis was used to synthesize main findings from
the studies. The mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.
Results
Nineteen studies were included in this systematic review. All 19 studies fulfilled most of the criteria outlined by the MMAT
for each study design (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods). Mixed methods studies had the lowest MMAT scores. Seven
themes were identified that further elucidate the important relationships between leisure participation and QoL: active physical
leisure participation and physical well-being; leisure participation and self; leisure participation and emotional well-being;
leisure participation and social well-being; leisure participation and cognition; leisure preferences and well-being; and
negative aspects of leisure participation.
for each study design (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods). Mixed methods studies had the lowest MMAT scores. Seven
themes were identified that further elucidate the important relationships between leisure participation and QoL: active physical
leisure participation and physical well-being; leisure participation and self; leisure participation and emotional well-being;
leisure participation and social well-being; leisure participation and cognition; leisure preferences and well-being; and
negative aspects of leisure participation.
Conclusions
The use of thematic analysis enabled the synthesis of findings from quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods study designs.
Participating in both naturally occurring, spontaneous forms of leisure activities and participating in more structured types
of leisure and therapeutic programs that focus on leisure contribute to improving the QoL of children with neurodevelopmental
disabilities. A key aspect to consider is the child’s ability to participate in his/her preferred leisure activities. Environmental
adaptations may be required to ensure that the leisure opportunities meet the children’s capabilities and contribute positively
to their QoL.
Participating in both naturally occurring, spontaneous forms of leisure activities and participating in more structured types
of leisure and therapeutic programs that focus on leisure contribute to improving the QoL of children with neurodevelopmental
disabilities. A key aspect to consider is the child’s ability to participate in his/her preferred leisure activities. Environmental
adaptations may be required to ensure that the leisure opportunities meet the children’s capabilities and contribute positively
to their QoL.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-13
- DOI 10.1007/s11136-011-0063-9
- Authors
- Noemi Dahan-Oliel, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Keiko Shikako-Thomas, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Annette Majnemer, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Journal Quality of Life Research
- Online ISSN 1573-2649
- Print ISSN 0962-9343