Jansen, AntheaEngelbrecht, Hendrika Augustha (Helé)2024-07-192024-07-192023http://hdl.handle.net/11660/12699Dissertation (M.OccTh.(Occupational Therapy)--University of the Free State, 2023𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱: Early identification leading to appropriate intervention and support for individuals with developmental dyslexia is paramount in the optimal management of this neurodevelopmental disorder. In the absence of clearly defined genetic markers, developmental dyslexia are currently noted through the behavioural signs (in the current study referred to as occupational markers) displayed by an individual with developmental dyslexia. Despite the call of international researchers for the development of a dyslexic profile as opposed to a single deficit in the identification of developmental dyslexia, a gap in research defining a dyslexic profile still exists. This indicated the need for further research to aid in the identification of occupational markers that may contribute to the compilation of a possible dyslexic profile as well as identification of possible supportive structures for individuals with developmental dyslexia. The aim of the study was to identify possible occupational markers for developmental dyslexia as well as supportive structures that may guide intervention. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱: The study followed the guidelines provided by Arksey and O’Malley to conduct a scoping study utilizing the 5 Stage framework. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: The first scoping study revealed the presence of possible occupational markers that may be indicative of the presence of developmental dyslexia in an individual. Dyslexic strengths were also noted and may contribute to a possible dyslexic profile. The second scoping study investigated the supportive structures available to individuals with developmental dyslexia, noting social support (as described in the PEOP model) as a major contributor. The results also indicated that early identification served as means of support thus highlighting the importance of timely identification. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The results of the research may inform the compilation of a dyslexic profile thus enabling early identification of individuals with developmental dyslexia. The use of a profile will also enable identification irrespective of language and culture thus promoting inclusion and occupational justice. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Further research should be conducted to investigate the use of occupational markers to aid in the compilation of a dyslexic profile as well as supportive structures available to individuals within the South African context. The knowledge of occupational markers could also guide research within the South African context to develop a screening tool. The current research may also inform the development of an interdisciplinary working model to foster interprofessional communication and guide future research.enDevelopmental dyslexiaoccupational markerssupportive structuresDissertationUniversity of the Free State