Prevalence of dysfunction in sensory integration in kindergarten children

Abstract

Background Children with dysfunction in sensory integration
(DSI) have difficulty effectively and efficiently interacting with
their environment. It has been estimated that 5 to 10% ofchildren
without disabilities have DSI. Late assessment and intervention
in children with this problem may significantly impact further
development. To date, there is no available data on DSI prevalence
in Indonesian children, which is crucial for better understanding
of the DSI burden in the community.
Objective To estimate the prevalence of DSI in North Jakarta
children using standardized screening tools.
Methods Parents of kindergarten children from two private
schools in N orth Jakarta were given questionnaire packets
including the Family Information Questionnaire and Winnie Dunn's
Short Sensory Profile (SSP) to assess demographic data and parents'
perceptions of their children with regards to DSI.
Results Of 264 questionnaire packets distributed, 117 packets
were returned (44.3%). Most children were of Chinese ethnicity
and aged 3 to 5 years. Of the 117 children, 49 children ( 41.9%)
met the criteria for DSI (definite difference), 33 children (28.2%)
were in the probable difference category for DSI, and 35 children
(29.9%) were in the category of typical performance. The scores for
the parameters of under-responsive and visual/auditory sensitivity
were the most commonly observed in subjects in the definite
difference category. From all questionnaire packets, a total of
18.56% of children in selected kindergartens in North Jakarta
met the screening criteria for DSI, while an additional 12.5%
were likely to have the disorder.
Conclusion Based on parental reports, we find that 18.56% of
children from two private kindergartens in North Jakarta had
DSI, while an additional 12.5% are likely to have the disorder.