Predictive role of individual factors in the leisure preferences of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: a cross-sectional study in Iran

Background/Aims The participation of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy in leisure activities is associated with their preferences. A better understanding of their leisure preferences and the factors that influence them can help therapists to promote young patients' participation in leisure activities. The aim of this study was to describe the role of individual factors in the prediction of leisure preferences of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy in Iran. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 152 children and adolescents with cerebral palsy were selected to complete the Preferences for Activities of Children questionnaire. Simple and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess the role of individual factors in the prediction of preferences for leisure activities. Results Individual factors played a significant role in the prediction of leisure preferences. Their influence on the preferences for recreational, physical and self-improvement domains (r(2) =0.215; 0.154; 0.127, respectively) were greater than for social and skill-based domains (r(2) =0.045; 0.052, respectively). Conclusions Preferences for physical activities need to be augmented while a high preference for social and recreational activities could be used to promote participation in leisure activities. Therapists and other healthcare professionals should consider individual factors relating to leisure preferences when devising therapeutic plans that aim to promote participation in leisure activities.