Darek Zarur
Pronouns: he/him
Research Mentor(s): Haylie Miller
Research Mentor School/College/Department: University of Michigan / Kinesiology
Program:
Authors: Darek Zarur, Bridgette Rupp, Haylie Miller
Session: Session 6: 3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Poster: 105
Abstract
The goal of the Motor and Visual Development Lab is to identify motor differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical people. Determining which areas of motor skill require support will aid in developing targeted interventions or providing support to neurodivergent people, either within a condition (e.g., Autism) or across conditions. We use standardized motor and visual assessments to identify overlap and difference among conditions including Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Prior research and our preliminary results show that neurodivergent people have specific problems in the area of postural control, which can increase fall risk and limit mobility. The long-term goal of this ongoing study is to determine which specific motor skills are different in neurodevelopmental conditions, and how they change across the lifespan. In doing so, we can develop new diagnostic tools, interventions, and supports to identify, improve, and accommodate them.
