Understanding Praxis and Its Importance in Everyday Life
Praxis refers to the ability to think through, organize, and carry out purposeful actions to achieve a goal. It involves several key components:
Generating Ideas for Action: This refers to the understanding of what actions are possible with a given object. For example, recognizing that a ball can be kicked or thrown, but not stood upon.
Organizing a Task: This component includes determining what materials are required for a specific task, such as planning for a craft project.
Sequencing Actions: This involves breaking down the steps necessary to complete a task, like getting dressed or packing a bag.
Executing Actions: This is the capacity to perform the necessary physical actions, such as climbing a ladder or going down a slide.
Using Feedback for Improvement: Praxis entails adjusting actions based on feedback received. For instance, if a person misses a target while throwing a ball, they might modify their throwing technique for better aim in the future.
Praxis is essential in various daily activities, encompassing daily tasks like writing and dressing, as well as broader life skills such as socializing, organizing, and emotional regulation.
What Are the Foundations of Praxis?
Effective praxis necessitates accurate sensory processing, which involves the ability to discriminate sensory input from our tactile (touch), proprioceptive (muscles and joints), and vestibular (movement) systems. For example, discerning whether an object in your pocket is a quarter or a paperclip, or determining whether you are moving slowly or quickly. This sensory feedback enables us to plan and execute movements accurately and automatically.
Additionally, praxis is connected to higher-level thinking, particularly in terms of ideation (generating ideas) and planning activities.
Signs of Developed Praxis Skills
When praxis skills are well-developed, individuals can:
Complete daily tasks such as dressing and organizing personal belongings.
Transition smoothly between different activities.
Approach, learn, and replicate new skills.
Generate creative ideas for play and problem-solving.
Regulate emotions and behaviors in environments with high demands, such as social situations or sports.
Signs of Praxis Differences
Individuals who may need additional support with praxis skills might:
Benefit from assistance with daily tasks, such as getting dressed or participating in classroom activities.
Benefit from extra help transitioning between activities or maintaining a routine.
Prefer familiar activities or playing with toys in a known way.
Benefit from observing others as a way to meaningfully participate.
Experience emotional fluctuations when faced with tasks that have high demands, such as trying something new or challenging.
How Praxis Skills Are Supported
Interventions to support praxis often involve occupational therapy. Therapists with advanced training in sensory integration use a "bottom-up" approach, beginning with sensory activities to enhance sensory processing. As sensory systems improve, therapists introduce specific praxis tasks, helping individuals practice new activities, repeat tasks for mastery, and develop the ability to plan and execute tasks.
In addition to direct intervention, therapists offer strategies and accommodations to help individuals apply their skills in everyday settings. This ensures they can participate meaningfully and successfully in their daily routines, activities, and social environments.
References -
Bundy, A.C., Lane, S.J. (2020). Sensory Integration Theory and Practice 3rd Edition. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company.