performance skills
Observable, goal-directed actions that a person enacts when performing daily life tasks, including motor skills, process skills, and social interaction skills.
Full Definition
Performance skills are the small, observable actions that individuals demonstrate when engaging in daily life tasks and occupations. According to the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, performance skills are categorized into motor skills (moving oneself and objects), process skills (organizing tasks logically and efficiently), and social interaction skills (communicating and interacting with others). These skills are context-dependent and can vary based on the specific task, environment, and personal factors. Occupational therapists assess performance skills to identify areas of difficulty and develop targeted interventions to improve occupational performance.
Usage
Usage note: Use plural form when referring to the broad category; specify motor, process, or social interaction skills when being more precise.
In Context
- "Assessment revealed deficits in process skills, particularly in sequencing and organizing cooking tasks." — Occupational therapy evaluation
- "The intervention plan targeted specific motor and process performance skills needed for independent living." — Treatment documentation