Sensory Integration Concerns in Children With Functional Defecation Disorders: A Scoping Review

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. We examined the literature to identify reports of sensory integration concerns in children with functional defecation issues and to explore whether difficulty processing sensation may be related to their challenging bowel management behaviors. METHOD. A scoping review was used to address the research question. We sourced articles from six databases in three languages, searched reference lists of all included articles, and identified additional articles through discussion with experts in the field. RESULTS. Twelve articles were included in the final synthesis, identifying 15 challenging behaviors potentially related to sensory integration concerns. CONCLUSION. We summarize research documenting sensory integration concerns in children with functional defecation issues, providing researchers and clinicians with an overview of the current state of understanding.

The toileting habit profile questionnaire: Examining construct validity using the Rasch model

“…In considering the construct of sensory under-reactivity and/or poor perception related to defecation, we endeavoured to identify additional items using clinical observation and two literature reviews (Beaudry-Bellefeuille et al., 2017, in press). We were unable to define additional items that could adequately measure these issues.…”

“…Directed content analysis is the method of choice when prior research exists about a phenomenon but the information available is incomplete (Hsieh and Shannon, 2005). We used this method to compare the items of the THPQ with two recent reviews: a systematic review identifying behaviours associated with FDD (Beaudry-Bellefeuille et al., 2017) and a scoping review identifying sensory concerns associated with FDD (Beaudry-Bellefeuille et al., in press). The items of the THPQ provided the initial framework to categorize behavioural and sensory concerns identified in the literature.…”

Italian Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Toileting Habit Profile Questionnaire Revised (THPQ-R) in Typically Developing Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…The acquisition of voluntary bowel continence and autonomy in personal hygiene are considered important milestones in childhood and are therefore among the participation concerns of interest in occupational therapy. Bowel control and personal hygiene are important activities of daily living and problems in these areas can limit an individual’s independence, well-being, and social participation [ 1 , 2 ]. Between the ages of 3 and 6 years, children acquire fecal continence and can safely transition to using a potty or toilet for evacuation.…”