Perceptual-motor Behavior in Down Syndrome

Many of the daily challenges faced by persons with Down syndrome are caused by difficulties in their perceptual-motor behavior. These challenges and their behavioral consequences have been the center of multi-disciplined research efforts over the past century.

Perceptual-Motor Behavior in Down Syndrome is a comprehensive collection of contemporary research and provides readers a window into the behavioral variability exhibited by this special group. Now you can apply this research to circumvent, or at least minimize, some of the general and specific processing challenges associated with Down syndrome.

Internationally recognized contributors from 10 different countries cover aspects of sensory, cognitive, and movement processes in infants, children, and adults with Down syndrome.

Specifically addressed are the differences and similarities among persons with Down syndrome, people with other disabilities, and non-disabled people. Contributors present fellow researchers, educators, parents, and students with an increased understanding that perceptual-motor behavior in Down syndrome is often adaptive and appropriate. Use this up-to-date resource in current program planning, educational initiatives, and future research efforts.

Part I focuses on some of the underlying functional components of perceptual-motor behavior, beginning with a discussion of muscular activation patterns and moving to more complex manual, locomotor, and visuomotor themes.

Part II discusses characteristics of motor behavior in Down syndrome in the context of maturation, learning, and adaptive change. Both Part I and Part II offer useful strategies that may facilitate skill acquisition.

Part III explores theoretical advances and the accompanying new research strategies for understanding and investigating perceptual-motor behavior in Down syndrome.

This text will facilitate an understanding of the environmental experience and development of perceptual-motor behavior in people with Down syndrome. With this text, you can help address the challenges faced by this extraordinary population.