Purpose: Permits early detection of sensory processing deficits that could lead to later learning difficulties. Ages: 3 to 5 years Testing Time: 30 minutes
The DeGangi-Berk Test of Sensory Integration (TSI) makes it easier to identify sensory integrative dysfunction in young children. Sensitive to even subtle developmental deficits, the TSI permits early detection of problems that could lead to learning difficulties if left untreated.
Designed for use with 3- to 5- year old children, the TSI includes 36 items measuring overall sensory integration as well as three clinically significant domains: Postural Control, Bilateral Motor Integration, and Reflex Integration. These vestibular-based functions are essential to the development of motor skills, visaul-spatial and language abilities, hand dominance, and motor planning.
TSI items require the child to perform specific tasks or respond to various stimuli. The test can be individually administered and scored in just 30 minutes. The therapist simply rates the child's performance on each item, using a numerical scale ranging from "abnormal" to "normal" development. In addition to a total score, the TSI provides scores for each of the three domains measired. Cutoff pointss allow you to quickly compare the child's performance with that of normal, at risk, and deficient youngsters.
The TSI effectively differentiates normal and developmentally delayed children. When used as the basis for screening decisions, total scores demonstrate an 81% accuracy rate, with a false normal error rate of only 9%.
Author: Georgia A. DeGangi, PhD, OTR and Ronald Berk, PhD
