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Assessment of the cognitive process and disability characteristics of children with developmental disabilities and school maladjustment, and related support methods
This research group aims to elucidate developmental disabilities and adjustment disorders as part of interactions among biological, psychological and environmental factors, and to develop related assessment /evaluation and assistance/support methods. Students here are engaged in research on issues they encounter in practical and clinical settings.
Associate Professor OKADA Satoshi
My research focus is on psychological assessment and assistance methods for issues that often arise in practical settings based on my experience in working on clinical developmental issues at medical, consulting and care/education institutions. For psychological assessment, I developed a tool to clarify the actual situation of children with developmental disabilities from early childhood through puberty, including their cognitive and behavioral characteristics, their awareness of themselves and their emotional conditions. I have also investigated the tool’s reliability, adequacy and clinical usefulness. In addition, I have not only provided support and guidance to such children based on assessment results but also helped adjust environmental factors in accordance with their actual conditions. In relation to instructions and assistance, I have examined special support and clinical developmental approaches (e.g., group approach, support through games, social skills training) based on children’s awareness of themselves and emotional conditions that go beyond helping them acquire skills or better adapt to their surroundings.
