The Relationship Between Adaptive Behaviour and Motor Proficiency—A Systematic Review

The aim of this review is to explore the relationship between adaptive behaviour (AB) and motor proficiency (MP). Despite AB being one of the core criteria for the diagnosis of intellectual disability, no review into the relationship between AB and MP exists. Of the 23 final studies, 19 supported a relationship between AB (composite score and/or practical, social or conceptual domains) and MP. Six studies included intellectual functioning variables, all highlighting the importance of considering both AB and intellectual functioning in relation to MP. Overall, there is evidence to support a relationship between AB and MP. More research is required of high methodological quality, in a variety of population samples and including intellectual functioning data.