Developmental FoR

I found interest in the Developmental Frame of Reference.  It encompasses the the sequential aspect of development and how behaviors are influenced through the mastery of previous stages.  People develop at different rates but each stage of development can only be achieved once the previous stage is completed.  Developmental FoR included 6 adaptive behaviors: sensory integration skills, cognitive skills, dyadic interaction skills, group interaction skills, self-identity skills, and sexual identity skills.  This FoR works with clients of all ages from childhood on. According to this theory, functional development would mean completing the stages of development in sequential order.  An OT helps intervene with maladaptive behavior and promotes sequential development. In school aged kids, a therapist might observe their social interaction with peers to assess dyadic interaction skills.

Three key terms associated with the Developmental FoR:
1) sensory integration skills - ability to receive, select, combine, and coordinate sensory information for functional use
2) dyadic interaction skills - ability to engage in a variety of primary groups
3) self-identity skills - ability to perceive self as an autonomous, holistic, acceptable person who has permanence and continuity over time