Design and Content Validity of a New Instrument to Evaluate Motor Abilities of Children with Severe Multiple Disabilities: Movakic (Part-I)

Aim: Evaluation of motor abilities of children with severe multiple disabilities is often based on subjective assessment or on instruments validated for other target populations. A practical instrument for the evaluation of change in motor abilities is needed. In this study such an instrument is constructed and its content validity and applicability are tested. Methods: The instruments content was developed using an expert focus group and a systematic literature review. Experts were consulted in all stages of development. Content validity was assesses using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). Applicability was assessed by experienced physical therapists in a pilot study among 53 children and adults with severe multiple disabilities. Results: Movakic (MOtor eVAluation of KIds with multiple and Complex disabilities), a questionnaire consisting of 21 items on motor abilities, was constructed. Movakic scores are based on an assessment of motor performance of the child and have to be assessed by physical therapists. Movakic had adequate content validity and applicability. Conclusions: Movakic’s good applicability and content validity suggest that is has potential to be a useful instrument in clinical practice. Movakic’s reliability is assessed in a prospective study, as reported in part II of this issue.