Date of Award
Spring 5-4-2024
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Health Science
Faculty Mentor
Megan Johnke OTD, OTR/L
Keywords
occupational therapy, emotional regulation, childhood trauma, trauma-informed care, mental health
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
Children who have experienced trauma often have poor emotional regulation skills which can lead to peer rejection, decline in engagement at school, and poor academic performance. Occupational therapists have the knowledge and skills to create a client-centered approach when working with children who have experienced trauma. This emotional regulation program is guided by a trauma-informed care approach and a public health approach to mental health. The program consisted of 59 students between transitional kindergarten and 5th grade meeting in small groups once a week for 30 minutes over 11 to 12 weeks. The sessions included activities related to emotional regulation such as identifying emotions, exploring calming strategies, learning about the brain, and using an interoception body chart. The results of the program showed small improvements in perceived emotions and behaviors in the classroom with statistical significance for reducing hyperactivity, emotional behavioral difficulties, and overall total difficulties with the paired t-test and reducing emotional behavioral difficulties for the independent t-test.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Mykenzie N., "Promoting Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Development for Children in a School Setting using Targeted Occupational Therapy Intervention" (2024). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 115.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/115