A Modification to the Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play to Enhance Its Utility: Evaluation of Validity, Responsiveness, and Reliability

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2024 Oct 1;36(4):449-456. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000001123. Epub 2024 Oct 1.

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the psychometric properties of a 4-second interval scoring modification of the Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play (ie, Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play 4-second interval scoring [APSP-4]).

Methods: A total of 95 children (3-48 months) with or at high risk for neuromotor delay were assessed with the APSP-4 and Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-III (Bayley). APSP-4 and Bayley cognitive raw scores were compared by age (construct validity) and over time (responsiveness). Twenty percent of videos were scored twice for intra- and interrater reliability.

Results: The APSP-4 demonstrated excellent interrater (intraclass correlations [ICCs] ≥ 0.96) and intrarater (ICCs ≥ 0.99) reliability and performed similar to Bayley cognitive raw scores at different ages ( r s > 0.5), and over time ( r = 0.81). The motor delay had similar effects on APSP-4 and Bayley scores.

Conclusions: Results support the validity and reliability evidence of the APSP-4 for use over time in tracking problem-solving skills in young children aged 3 to 48 months. Future research investigating clinical implementation of the APSP-4 is needed.

MeSH terms

  • Child Development / physiology
  • Child, Preschool
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Play and Playthings*
  • Problem Solving*
  • Psychometrics*
  • Reproducibility of Results