The proposed study will employ a RCT to test the two hypotheses. The design of the MTTP is based on the SELframework. The study will incorporate a 2 x 3 two-way factorial design with repeated measures at three time points.The two between-subject factor conditions will be participation in a MTTP versus a waitlist control condition that willbe evaluated at baseline, immediately post-program, and at 6-week follow-up (within-subject factor conditions). Sixty adolescents with UCP will be recruited for this study.~Aim 1. Evaluate the therapeutic benefits of a 6-week virtual MTTP on the extent of two-handed use tocomplete daily activities, social-emotional functioning, and emotional stress among adolescents with UCP.~Hypothesis #1: Adolescents with UCP who participate in a virtual MTTP will demonstrate increased use of two handsto perform daily activities, better social-emotional functioning, and a reduction in emotional stress compared to waitlistcontrols at the conclusion of a 6-week MTTP.~Hypothesis #2: The positive impact of the virtual MTTP on the participants' improved number of activities performedusing two hands, social-emotional functioning, and reduction in emotional stress will be maintained at 6-week follow-up.
The proposed project will attempt to confirm the benefits of a structured magic trick training program (MTTP) experience in adolescents with unilateral cerebral palsy. Benefits of participating in a 6-week virtual MTTP will be evaluated using validated assessments to measure the extent to which adolescents use two hands in activities and improve in social-emotional competencies.