Use of Attentional Focus in a Rehabilitation Setting: A Comparison of Theoretical Frameworks and Clinical Practice
Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Information provided by a therapist is an important for motor learning. Instinctively, therapists refer to body positioning, creating an internal focus of attention (IFOA. Literature suggests, statements directing attention away from specific body movements, known as external focus of attention (EFOA), are most effective for motor learning. Little is known about how EFOA statements in a clinical setting compare to suggestions in literature, or whether therapists have an understanding of how to use it in rehabilitation programs. To determine this, appointments of 15 therapists were observed, and a therapist perception questionnaire was administered. Findings indicate, IFOA statements (262) are used more frequently than EFOA statements (70). When other factors are considered (i.e., task type) communications more closely reflect literature's suggestions. Therapist perception questionnaires highlight a discrepancy between therapists' perceptions and what was actually presented. The majority of therapists had limited understanding of attentional focus as a clinical motor learning tool.
Author: Neb Zachariah
Institution: University of Windsor
Language: English
Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W46727365