Interrater Reliability of the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants as Used with Infants Exposed to Cocaine in Utero

Abstract

An increasing number of babies are being exposed in utero to cocaine (Kusserow, 1990; Matera, Warren, Moomjy, Fink, & Fox, 1990). While the medical and behavioral complications of in utero cocaine exposure continue to be realized, there are indications that children exposed to cocaine may experience at least subtle deficits in some areas of development. Specific sensory functioning deficits in these infants have not been substantiated. The Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (DeGangi & Greenspan, 1989) was evaluated in this study to discern whether it could be used reliably with babies exposed primarily to cocaine. These infants were evaluated during regularly scheduled clinic visits at 8, 12, and 18 months of age. Results indicated that the total test score has high interrater reliability. However, the Ocular-Motor Control Subtest shows very low interrater reliability and the Reactivity To Tactile Deep Pressure Subtest has only marginal interrater reliability.

Keywords

sensory modulation

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