Architectural Features of Rehabilitation Environments that Affect Information Processing in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Abstract
Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated that physical environments play a critical role in regulating behavior, and information processing in children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study aims to identify architectural features of rehabilitation environments and examine their relationship with the information processing abilities of children with ADHD.
Material and Methods: Thirty five children (mean age: 7.6m range: 5-10) diagnosed with ADHD from 10 rehabilitation centers in Tehran were recruited for this descriptive-analytical study. Data was collected via a researcher-designed questionnaire for evaluating important architectural elements in the rehabilitation centers and was validated for content and construct (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.81). The total score and the score for each item of the questionnaire were evaluated by a Professional architects. The sensory improvement of the children was also evaluated by short sensory profile questionnaire 2 times; at the base line and after 1 month of their treatment. Correlation between each architectural items and the improvement in the children’s sensory profiles were assessed by Pearson’s correlation tests.
Results: A significant positive and moderate correlation between elements such as natural light (r=0.58), calming color schemes (r=0.55), noise reduction (r=0.49), with improved information processing speed ability in children with ADHD (p < 0.01).
Conclusions: The results indicate that careful and intentional architectural design of rehabilitation environments can play an effective role in enhancing cognitive performance in children with ADHD. It is recommended that architects and rehabilitation professionals collaborate more closely to meet the perceptual and cognitive needs of these children in space design.
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| Issue | Articles in Press | |
| Section | Research Article(s) | |
| Keywords | ||
| Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder Architecture Rehabilitation Information processing | ||
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