ADOPTION AND PERCEPTIONS OF GAMIFICATION-BASED PHYSIOTHERAPY IN PEDIATRIC NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction:

Rehabilitation using gamification has become one of the promising strategies of enhancing the level of engagement, motivation, and adherence in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Although increased evidence is provided around the world, regarding its effectiveness, its use in clinical practice is still dependent on readiness and contextual factors, especially in low- and middle-income countries, such as Pakistan

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the adoption and perceptions of gamification-based physiotherapy among practitioners managing pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders in Karachi and to identify key predictors influencing adoption.

Methods:

A quantitative study, cross-sectional in nature, was conducted on licensed physiotherapists who were actively working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private clinics and academic institutions, across Karachi. A total of 278 participants took part in the study through convenience sampling of the Gamification Adoption Readiness Scale that was based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Analysis of the data was done using SPSS version 25. Participant characteristics were summarized using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression tests were done to determine relationships and predictors of adoption. The statistical significance was determined as p 0.05.

Results:

Only 12.6% of participants reported formal training in digital or gamified rehabilitation. Correlation analysis demonstrated significant positive associations between barriers and adoption (r = .318, p < .001) and between barriers and facilitation factors (r = .677, p < .001). Perception was not significantly associated with adoption (r = −.002, p = .968). Multiple linear regression revealed a significant overall model (F(3,274) = 13.626, p < .001), explaining 13% of variance in adoption (R² = .130). Barrier score was the strongest predictor (β = .479, p < .001), while facilitation score showed a significant negative association (β = −.213, p = .006); perception was not a significant predictor.

Conclusion:

The adoption of gamification-based physiotherapy is not only dependent on perception but also mainly on contextual and organizational factors. Enhancing institutional support, professional growth, and resources provisioning cannot be underestimated in making gamified rehabilitation a part of the pediatric physiotherapeutic practice.