THE ROLE OF THE PARENTAL PERSPECTIVE IN THE ASSESSMENT OF CHILD FUNCTIONING: THE PLACE OF PEDI

Elitsa Velikova, PhD Student

Department of Public Health University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev”

E-mail: egvelikova@uni-ruse.bg

Assoc. Prof. Petya Mincheva, PhD

Department of Public Health University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev”

ORCID: 0000-0002-1137-7482

E-mail: pmincheva@uni-ruse.bg

Abstract

Assessment of child functioning represents a foundational element in the occupational therapy process for children with disabilities. Parental perspective plays a key role in this process, providing unique information about the child's daily functioning in natural environment. This article examines the significance of parental participation in the assessment process, emphasizing both advantages and challenges of this approach. Special attention is devoted to the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) as a standardized assessment tool that integrates the parental viewpoint in evaluating functional skills, caregiver assistance, and environmental modifications. In addition, an anonymous survey with parents of children with disabilities was conducted, providing insights into their experience and role in the assessment process. Тhe article outlines the place of parental perspective in contemporary occupational therapy practice and the necessity for translation and validation of assessment tools in the Bulgarian context.

Keywords

Child Functioning, Parental Perspective, PEDI, Occupational Therapy, Disability Assessment, Functional Skills, Activities of Daily Living

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