The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effects of group-based rhythm-based body percussion training on neuromotor performance, attention, and functionality in adolescents with mild intellectual disability.
The study will be conducted in individuals aged 14-18 years with mild intellectual disability using a two-arm, parallel-group, evaluator-blind design. Participants will be assigned to experimental and control groups using a simple randomization method.
The experimental group will receive structured body percussion training twice a week for 45 minutes over 8 weeks. This training consists of rhythmic patterns including clapping, knee tapping, chest tapping, finger snapping, and foot tapping, and will be presented as a progressively advancing program with metronome accompaniment.
The control group will receive passive music listening without intervention for the same duration and frequency.
Participants will be evaluated at two time points: before and after the intervention. Evaluation tools include: The tests cover neuromotor performance with the Minnesota Hand Skills Test and the Four Square Step Test, rhythm coordination with the Metronome Synchronization Test, attention with the Stroop Test, and functionality with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Chart 2.0.
Being an adolescent aged 14-19 attending high school (e.g., special education high school)
Having been diagnosed with mild intellectual disability (IQ range according to relevant psychological assessment)
Having communication skills sufficient to understand simple commands and adapt to work
Being able to perform basic daily living activities (toilet hygiene and management, bladder/bowel management, eating, bathing, personal hygiene, dressing, functional mobility, etc.) independently or with minimal support, regardless of the level of disability
Painful musculoskeletal/orthopedic (rheumatic, etc.) problems that may prevent physical participation in rhythm-based body percussion training, restrict movement during training, and cause pain
Cardiovascular problems (arrhythmia, hypertension, etc.) that may prevent participants from attending training during the study period
Diagnosis of moderate or severe intellectual disability
Presence of additional diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, or developmental coordination disorder