A Systematic Review of the CO-OP Approach for Children and Adults With Developmental Coordination Disorder

Support for the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) Approach exists, but its specific evidence base for children and adults with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is unclear. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to synthesize and critically assess the evidence regarding the use of the CO-OP approach with children and adults with DCD. A systematic review of four health-related databases was conducted to identify studies, published from 1998 to 2023, which reported on the effectiveness of the CO-OP approach or explored its components. Following data extraction and critical appraisal, the strength of the body of evidence for the outcomes extracted was assessed, and a meta-analysis of three of the studies was conducted.

Thirty-one articles were selected. Findings consistently support CO-OP’s effectiveness with children having DCD, yielding positive outcomes for specific measures. However, characteristics of identified studies highlight the need for more rigorous research to bolster confidence in the evidence base.

This systematic review serves as a compelling call for an extended and diverse body of research aimed at deepening our understanding of the CO-OP approach. Exploration of its effectiveness across the lifespan, its adaptability, and its theoretical foundations is essential.