Validating the Reliability and Validity of the Persian Version of the Mini-Manual Ability Classification System Publisher



Riyahi A¹ ; Akbarfahimi N² ; Sarlak N³ ; Abdolrazaghi H⁴ ; Nobakht Z⁵ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Rehabilitation Sciences and Research Published:2023

Abstract

Background: Cerebral Palsy (CP) refers to a collection of lifelong conditions that affect a child’s development and posture, limiting their ability to engage in various activities. Many children with CP encounter various upper extremity issues that can vary in severity. Recognizing the capabilities of children under the age of 4 is of utmost importance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to create a Persian version of the mini-Manual Ability Classification System (mini-MACS) and assess its validity and reliability. Methods: In this methodological study, the Persian version of the mini-Manual Ability Classification System (mini-MACS) underwent a series of assessments to evaluate its validity and reliability. The study included procedures for translation, face validity, and content validity, as well as tests for test-retest reliability and interrater reliability. The evaluation of the scale’s reliability involved the participation of 100 parents of children with cerebral palsy, 12 occupational therapists, and one researcher. The study encompassed 56 boys and 44 girls diagnosed with cerebral palsy, with an average age of 33.21 months (SD=11.37). Results: The comprehensive findings from the study demonstrated that the words and sentences employed in the mini-Manual Ability Classification System (mini-MACS) were straightforward, lucid, comprehensible, pertinent, and essential. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) for the test-retest reliability were notably high, with values of 0.955 for parents, 0.979 for occupational therapists, and 0.943 for the researcher. In terms of interrater reliability, the coefficients exhibited strong agreement. The coefficient between parents and occupational therapists was 0.939, between parents and the researcher was 0.954, and between occupational therapists and the researcher was 0.922. Conclusion: The Persian version of the mini-Manual Ability Classification System (mini-MACS) appears valid and reliable. This system can be effectively utilized to assess children with cerebral palsy. 2023© The Authors. Published by JRSR. All rights reserved.