Theory-Based Correlates of Physical Activity Among Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder: a Scoping Review

Purpose of ReviewChildren with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) have consistently been found to be at higher risk of physical inactivity, as they tend to have deficits or difficulties performing the complex motor skills required for participation. Consequently, children with DCD have also been found to be at greater risk for cardiorespiratory disease and mental health issues as they enter adolescence and adulthood. Therefore, to effectively intervene and promote physical activity among children with DCD, it is important that we understand the factors related to their behaviors or participation.Recent FindingsThe current paper is a scoping review to examine the salient psychosocial factors related to physical activity among children with DCD based on three of the most common behavioral theories in physical activity research (i.e., social cognitive theory [SCT], self-determination theory [SDT], theory of planned behavior [TPB]).SummaryOur results found 14 relevant studies, with most that are based in social cognitive theory and self-determination theory. Self-efficacy, perceived motor competence, and the broader construct of motivation were consistently found to be positively related to physical activity behaviors. Most studies, however, were cross-sectional in design and did not test the theories in its entirety. More studies designed to test behavioral theories are needed in the DCD literature. However, current findings suggest that physical literacy-based interventions that simultaneously target confidence to move and motivation to engage in different activities could be an effective strategy to better promote physical activity among children with DCD.